obviously bu is very expensive. if you're military, check yellow ribbon deadlines early to make sure you don't miss them. it's an investment, so you get out what you put in.

What to do for fun

boston!!!

Food and Dining

ate in the dining hall when i was on a tour and it was really good! they have a lot of options (and really good brownies).

Dorm Life

guaranteed housing for 4 years was a big plus for me, and rare for a city school (especially a bigger one like bu). lots of 'learning living communities' and a wide variety of places to live.

Academic Rigor

hard to answer because i haven't started classes yet. i think it depends on your major as for how 'hard' your classes will be, but in general, all of bu's programs are strong.

Tips for prospective students

take ap's if your school has them! you're not required to have straight a's to get in. try the sat and act once each, then compare composite scores and retake the one you did better on. (you will usually find one is easier for you, and the other isn't worth stressing about.) do well in school, work hard on your application, be thoughtful in writing your essays and get strong letters of rec. the first semester of senior year does matter so try!!! there are lots of schools in boston, so talk about why you like bu, not just the city. good luck :-)

In three sentences

very prestigious, well ranked university. beautiful campus and great location. all the resources you could ever need!

Emilie from Miami, FL

01/27/2016

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

If applying to the 7yr accelerated program. It is academically rigorous of the 1000 people who apply roughly 20 get accepted to the program. Those within the program became a tight knit group of individuals who foster a sense of community in an atmosphere of academic rigor.

In three sentences

It is a lovey campus. The academics are excellent as well as the students on campus. It is also in Boston which is a great college town.

JR from Boston, MA

12/30/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

5 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

It's an open campus on a public street so things do happen. But they have a shuttle that runs late into the night & that's helpful for getting around depending on where you are. The BU police are nearby. I feel pretty good about the safety.

Clubs and Activities

Plenty of clubs and activities. It almost gets overwhelming at times, but it's great.

Bang for the buck

BU is a very reputable school. Specifically, I am in the Questrom School of Business and I feel like they prepare you very well for the real-world. It helps to know that you're not wasting your time and breaking your back studying for nothing. The relevance of what I'm being taught makes me want to understand the material more because I know that I'll actually be using it. I still don't think that any university should be $50k+ a year but that's a different story for a different day. I'm here and I love it. Even with the thousands of students here, I still feel like I'm cared for on an individual level. We have it better than a lot of other schools, so I feel like the complaints should be kept to a minimum. It's all about perspective. I'm very happy to be here.

What to do for fun

There's almost too much to do sometimes. There are so many clubs and activities. I barely did any, so for anyone who is more involved than I am, you're most likely going to have a great time because I sure am having a great time.

Food and Dining

The food at BU is better than most campuses. In fact, the nicest dining hall is too fancy for me. I'm a chicken & rice kind of person, and they really have a variety of foods & international dishes, which I'm not always into variety. But they always have pizza that I can rely on. Too fancy? I obviously have no real gripes about the food. There's a restaurant type place called Late Night Kitchen that takes dining points and it's a nice place with good food. There's also other places along Comm Ave that take dining points such as Dunkin Donuts, Starbucks, Extreme Pita, etc.

Dorm Life

The dorms are nicer than other schools I've visited. They're all actually pretty nice if you're not particular about certain things & can properly distinguish a craphole from a decent place. As expensive as it is, there are a few spots they could improve. Wherever you live, you get used to it. I personally didn't have bug problems or anything like that. Maintenance was speedy if you ever needed it. They always try to have floor events if you really want to be involved. I never really knew anyone on my floors but you find friends elsewhere so it's ok.

Academic Rigor

The courses are not always easy but they're relevant. It may be wise to change your study habits because what has worked for you in the past may not work now. I struggled my first year and almost fell into academic probation. I started using the educational resources and meeting with advisors and really pushing myself and I was about to make the Dean's List. Anything is possible here. You don't have to come in as an A+ student, but you can't be lazy if you want to make good grades.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you end your first semester with good grades because you have to work really hard to recover from poor ones. See your professors for help if you're having any trouble. It really helps to get to know the faculty there, even the ones you don't have classes with. Also, make sure to use every resource you can to really get your money's worth.

In three sentences

BU has so many resources it's almost overwhelming. Everyone is there to help you. What you learn is very relevant to the real world.

I love it here. I picked random roommate and I'm so close with my friends from the dorm.

Academic Rigor

not too difficult, tbh

Tips for prospective students

don't forget that you can literally do anything with the resources available here

In three sentences

BU is such a vibrant campus. The students here come from all around the world, and you can learn so much from everyone you meet. Also, the options for extracurriculars and academic opportunities are ENDLESS.

Katherine from Joliet, IL

12/02/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Police ready at all times. When the Nov 13 Paris attacks occurred, for the next week there was heightened security by BUPD as well as Boston Police. I have never felt unsafe walking around campus alone, with people, at night, or even in the day.

Greek Life

It exists, but it isn't a big part of the life here. Sororities are more prominent than Frats. And they mostly are about doing good instead of partying.

Clubs and Activities

There's a club for everyone, and they're all fun. The people you meet are all very passionate about what they do in all aspects of life, and they hope that you are also.

Great for these types of students

It's for those who have the initiative to make a difference in the world. The university chooses it's students wisely -no one is a mistake. Everyone here is dynamic, polite, strong, professional, and individualistic. Not one person will be the same as the next, which I've seen all too many times at other schools. But again, they are all tops of their classes.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Clubs/frats like to paint the rock at the BU Beach. Sometimes you can't even read what they put, but it's a different color each time you pass it. The GSU is a hub for almost anything: the library (with places to sleep in peace), a computer lab for computer science majors across the street, food, convenience store, a club in the basement, and a cute lawn called the Beach. I've heard the sunset is beautiful at the Student Village on the top floor. West Campus hosts all the sporting arenas, a gym with a pool, and a great view of the city at night.

Bang for the buck

With the resources available to students, academic rigor, and location, BU is a great place for those who are ready to branch out and explore the world and explore their own preferences. Don't let the price scare you. If money is an issue, make it known to advisors so they can assist you. It's possible to survive without spending a dollar out of pocket here.

What to do for fun

Being in the middle of Boston, there are loads of things to do. Personally, I enjoy going to concerts with the little extra cash that I have. Also look out for free events hosted by the different clubs on campus. There's a venue called the Paradise Rock Club located on West Campus, which is very convenient. There are parades in Cambridge (the island to the north), Fenway Park across the highway, holiday events through the streets and at the Common, and the Prudential Center (a mall) is only a 20 minute walk away. You can never say that you're bored.

Food and Dining

It's expensive. The dining halls get crowded at meal times and the food is not how you mom makes it. Where you can use your dining points is also very expensive, but there are ways of lowering your costs. I highly recommend the Charles River Bread Co. at the GSU primarily because they make this phenomenal South Campus Jerk Chicken sandwich.

Dorm Life

Since it is still a university, everyone is too close and people will still do stupid things. It's up to you whether or not to participate in those kinds of (il)legal activities.

Academic Rigor

the classes are hard if you make them hard. even if they are difficult, there are loads of resources available by the school for tutoring (however it would be best to sign up for it early).

Tips for prospective students

It's not a party school. It's not high school. However, it can be if you want it to be. Just remember that this is a research-oriented university and everyone here is pretty much a devout nerd.

In three sentences

The university has evolved into a community that lets you choose your future. It's definitely expensive; but coming from a lower-middle class family, it's possible. BU allows you to grow and learn academically and personally, completely at your speed.

Sonya from Sandy Hook, CT

Sometimes Boston can be a dangerous city, but I have never felt unsafe on BU's campus. The police are always present and very responsive.

Greek Life

It's there if you want it. We don't have greek houses, but there are frats and sororities for anyone who wants that kind of community. I am presently part of APO (a co-ed community service frat) and absolutely love it.

Clubs and Activities

Hundreds of clubs and activities are always available. Definitely go to SPLASH in the beginning of the year and sign up for any club that sounds interesting.

Great for these types of students

BU is great for all kinds of students. There is such a diverse population that anyone can find a niche.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's a rock behind the chapel that different student groups paint for different events. I painted it gold and blue for my co-ed community service frat.

Bang for the buck

BU is definitely expensive, and they don't hand hold you. If you're a proactive student, you definitely get your money's worth. It is a very expensive school, but there are need based scholarship and financial aide options.

What to do for fun

Being in Boston, there is always something to do. There are also a lot of clubs and student groups you can get involved in on campus.

Food and Dining

Excellent food, lots of different options.

Dorm Life

Some dorms are older, but every dorm definitely has enough space and quickly becomes your home.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor is very dependent on your major and what college you're studying in.

Tips for prospective students

You can always change your mind, and there are people at BU who will help you become sure about what you want to do with your time here. Buy a Charlie Card so you can get around the city on public transportation. Get involved in the community.

In three sentences

A unique and diverse community excellent for cultivating personal and academic growth. BU is what you make it. Being in the city, every opportunity is at your fingertips, but it's on you to reach for it.

William from Austin, TX

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Food and Dining

Their on-campus dining was great.

Dorm Life

The dorms put you in the heart of campus and suit most everyone.

Academic Rigor

I've heard a lot about BU's academic rigor. Considering you'd be graduation from one of the top 40 schools in the US, it seems worth it.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for scholarships as the tuition is costly. Do well on your PSATs so you can qualify for national recognitions. Do not submit the first essay you write in your application- revise it and even consider a different topic.

In three sentences

BU is great if and only if you're willing to put in the work. The campus is extremely picturesque and located in a nice neighborhood in Boston. I highly recommend visiting even if you don't plan on attending... they may change your mind.

Jet from Murrieta, CA

04/06/2015

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Between the MA state police, Boston police and campus police, along with their system that allows you to be picked up with just the press of a button and escorted safely back to your dorm, I can't think of a better security system in such a large city.

Clubs and Activities

Too many to name! But they have Quidditch which is cool.

Great for these types of students

Hardworking, passionate, flexible and open-minded about new ideas and new experiences.

Food and Dining

With multiple dining halls and Healthy Living and vegetarian options, to the variety of meal plans BU offers, it's a great place to get a taste of multiple different kinds of food.

Dorm Life

Personally, I completely fell in love with the brownstones and the apartments. Because of the nine different colleges on the BU campus, there are multiple options and styles of dorms to be housed in. Although the freshmen doors are a little small, once you get out of them it's a whole different world. There's also a ton of places to get away from your dorm but still be able to connect with people around campus.

Academic Rigor

There is variety of intelligent minds that attend such a prestigious university as BU. In addition to that you find yourself surrounded by professionals who are not only teaching in that field, but doing active work in it as well. If you're looking for a college to breeze through and get your undergrad work done as easily as possible this probably isn't the place for you.

Tips for prospective students

Search for ALL scholarship opportunities as early as possible. Especially those who may be using the 9/11 GI Bill or looking for the Yellow Ribbon Program (which they do offer), there are important deadlines and information that should be reviewed carefully.

In three sentences

It is an absolutely amazing school that gives the feeling of adventure, academic intensity and a perfect home away from home. Being in the city of Boston just adds to the overall experience, and the views along with the opportunities one can find there are all but unfathomable. I would definitely say it should be a top choice for anyone interested in getting a phenomenal education along with the full college experience.

Roni from Laurelton, NY

03/12/2015

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

I visited Boston University during the height of the winter storm and it was still a beautiful campus. The themed dorms are great for students who would rather room with those like them. I also appreciate the green line transit being available and convenient to all.

Join Clubs: act, sing, snowboard, build robots! There's a lot to do just within the BU clubs so definitely go to splash at the beginning of the year! go to the north end for italian, the harbor for fish, and quincy market for any other food related needs

Food and Dining

Food is amazing those first few weeks (especially at Bay State Dining Hall) but it definitely drops off after the first

Dorm Life

The Dorm's are amazing and the RA are very relaxed and great people themselves. Keep in mind many dorms do not AC (only heat) so those first months are pretty hot!

Academic Rigor

BU traditionally has the toughest finals in the states. You're going to be getting one of the best educations in the country, but keep in mind unlike many colleges in the US Boston University has opted to not inflate grades, with the exception of the writing department.

Tips for prospective students

If you're looking for greek life look somewhere else, only about 15% participate and they are not a big part of the BU community. If you're looking for everything else look no further because BU has it all!

In three sentences

It is amazing. The people are great, and the clubs are superb. The professors are always there to help you during office hours, and the courses are really interesting!

Not dominating, but it's there. No sorority houses, which is lame for the girls, and all of the frats are in off campus apartments. It's mostly where freshman girls go to party.

Clubs and Activities

Endless options for club and intramural sports and other clubs. People I know have even walked onto some D1 sports.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't ever step on the seal in the middle of campus near Marsh Plaza.

What to do for fun

If you're have money and/ or you're 21, the city is a lot of fun. The social life is prevalent, but a lot of times there wasn't a lot to do in the winter, especially in the winter

Food and Dining

One of the best perks of a big school. Dining halls are pretty good and the unlimited plan is the best way to go. If you want something different, there are other things on campus and endless places to eat in the city.

Dorm Life

Freshman dorms are not the worst, but the sense of community that I know people at other schools experience isn't there for the most part. The room selection process is terrible and random at times.

Academic Rigor

Unnecessarily hard to get an A, particularly in any STEM classes.

Tips for prospective students

It is probably good for some people, but I would highly suggest researching about your major or program and comparing it to other schools. If you are pre-med, DO NOT take Chem 101. Take Chem 109 if you can because Chem 101 will ruin your GPA unless you are one of the very, very few people that gets an A or a B. Live in West if you like to party and east if you want to be near classes.

In three sentences

This is a great school if you're looking for something in a very urban environment. It was not the right fit for me for numerous reasons, including the lack of a normal campus, grade deflation and lack of school spirit. It's a good school, but I don't think it's worth the expensive tuition in the end.

Julie from Orlando, FL

Besides little to no news about robbery in Bay state road, there's no worry for safety here in Boston.

Clubs and Activities

There a lot of clubs, and a LOT of repetitive clubs, even - like science honor societies, volunteer clubs, or christian small groups. You'll find no problem in finding a club that fits you here. They even have anime, jiujitsu, badminton, music society, MUN, marching band, book club, and various sports clubs too.

Great for these types of students

There are a lot of Chinese students and international students in general. And very diverse kinds of people in general. So no worries if you feel like you're just one of a unique kind, but just be yourself here. There are people that can accept you for who you are in this big big big pool of people, from nerds to otaku to tech geeks to clubbers to aliens. Just don't be shy and actively engage yourself to the social life here.

Bang for the buck

If you want to utilize this no-joke tuition of appx $63,000, you gotta actively pursue your career opportunities and study butt off to get good grades and stretch yourself. As long as YOU put efforts and actively seek to improve yourself, this school's got everything for you, but you just need to actively pursue those chances. They offer 2 student tutorings per week for Any subject/class, professors have office hours a lot, writing tutors readily available if you need help on essays, internship or job listings on our studentlink, or physically present in Student Job Services office or whatever that's called, etc. FULL OF OPPORTUNITIES, but you just need to be seeking them. THEY WON'T BABYSIT YOU for passively doing nothing, just sitting in your dorm being pessimistic about life and bad grades.

What to do for fun

People go to party on weekends, clubs, or frat parties. But it's totally ok if you're not a party person like I'm not either, because you'll find your own people in this diverse and HUGE community.

Food and Dining

Food in dining halls are not that great. They are edible and sometimes good, but it's a repetition of same foods over a period of 2-3 weeks, and they fill your stomach really full. Indigestion is real. The food in Bay State dining hall is the best among residence hall dining halls.

Dorm Life

It's very social. As a freshmen, people usually chose Warren Towers or West Campus, but Warren is close to CAS and all the other schools except CGS and College of Fine Arts. Warren is traditionally a freshman dorm, and it's where the most social interaction takes place. But people party a lot in West, too. Warren double is livable. Although I heard the quad rooms are a bit pain in the butt to live. There are plenty of other options besides warren and west, like bay state, towers, myles, kilachand, etc. for freshmen to live. Choose well regarding where your majority of classes are, because the walk gets kind of annoying. West is really far from all the colleges tho, except CGS and CFA. It'll be kinda hard to live there, but they have cleaner, better rooms than Warren.

Academic Rigor

The grade deflation is real. You need to be prepared to face the harsh storm of getting bad grades when you come in. But it'll all be fine if you study your best, and really oriented in your future success, not paying attention to any other entertainments.

Tips for prospective students

Be yourself, when you apply. BU emphasizes Be You. You can achieve your best self by being you, and this truth trespasses everywhere. So if you've actively lived your life until high school, doing what you wanted, BU will accept you for who you are. But your grades or any kind of proof must reflect your passion in life whether it be academics or whatever field you're in.

In three sentences

BU is a great place to find your way. They are full of resources, lively spirits, and people to help encourage your future, but you just need to know how to find them yourself and utilize them. It is a great place to learn life, get profound education, build friend relationships, and career preparation.

You are living in a city, take advantage of those opportunities. Not to mention it will be the cheapest housing you will find in an expensive city like Boston.

Academic Rigor

BU is a hard school, college is a challenge. Especially for engineering students. Even though they are looking for the middle 50%, they are looking for someone ready for the challenge. At the same time, as a student you have to be able to balance out the education that BU is trying to provide, even for a societal engineer.

In three sentences

Boston University is a true Urban Campus because it isn't surrounded by a gate and is really a part of the city. The people are ready to experience new things in a modern fast paced but still historically rooted city; a true juxtaposition. Students are intellectually curious, ready to ask new questions to existing or new problems, and find out how they will contribute to the world.

Idine from Brentwood, TN

08/26/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The BUPD (Boston University Police Department) does a great job of upholding the classic police mantra: protect and serve. They're quick to respond to any emergency and the classic Blue Light emergency system is widely spread throughout campus. One example was when a friend of mine went to a frat party and got WAY too drunk and was getting seriously ill. Our friend group called the BUPD and they showed up within minutes and promptly called an ambulance and took care of our friend.

Greek Life

You're in the Northeast, so Greek life isn't as big a deal as it is in the South. I, personally, am not a member of any fraternity but from what I've seen and heard from a lot of the people in the culture, the frats and sororities do have a tight-knit bond and seem to have a lot of fun most weekends.

Clubs and Activities

There's over 500 clubs and organizations on campus so odds are that whatever you're into, it's here. I myself am musically directing BU's Parent's Weekend Musical: Into the Woods through the club Stage Troupe. You can visit http://www.bu.edu/studentactivities/ for a list of all the registered clubs and groups. Or you can just always start your own!

Great for these types of students

Trust me, if you're looking to strike a balance between fun and study, there's few better places than BU. Not only do you have access to a lot of opportunities in one of the world's leading cities in education, you also have the ability to experience so many things that you wouldn't have dreamed of with the unique character and atmosphere of BU and Boston in general.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

In terms of unusual traditions: absolutely never ever ever ever step on the seal in front of Marsh Chapel. All who do are doomed to never graduate. Or so the legend says. In terms of unusual locations, if you're lucky and are crafty enough, you can get access to some of the rooftops of the buildings and the sight from those rooftops are absolutely stunning.

Bang for the buck

Being a major metropolitan area, things are going to be a bit more expensive. However, with some patience and a proper use of online resources, you can find a lot of things to do for pretty cheap. BU also provides a lot of resources for these kinds of deals. For example, on the weekends, you can get movie tickets for half the price and if you attend some symposiums and various school-sponsored events, you can get free food and free tickets to different events. For example, I went to this art exhibit for students and I get a free ticket to the Boston Symphony.

What to do for fun

You're in Boston so there's really no shortage of things to do. Whether you're into sports (BU happens to be right next to Fenway Stadium), the arts, or really any kind of culture, there's something to do. Boston's transit system: the T as it's called, does a great job of being a reliable and quick transportation service. So really, all it takes is a quick Google search and you'll be on your way to some awesome local activity.

Food and Dining

The food at BU is just like the food at other institutions: average. However, there is a good variety of food and a lot of vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and halal options. I would recommend you stock your room with snacks from the nearby Whole Foods and Star Market in order to avoid the dining hall as much as possible.

Dorm Life

This really depends on what you're looking for. I think I echo the majority of students' opinions when I say that the housing process is a nightmare. It's a lottery system (the higher the number you're assigned, the earlier you get to choose your residence) and you really are not given any information about prospective dorms. I would strongly advise getting off-campus after your freshman year. The cost is around the same as living in a dorm and provides you with many less restrictions. Of course, there are many things to consider when going off-campus such as commute time, neighborhood, and the responsibilities that come with living off-campus.

Academic Rigor

This really depends on the major and career that you're looking to follow. For example, I'm a Neurobiology major that's also looking to go medical school. So in terms of course work, there's a lot to do. However, if you stay organized and implement a solid study schedule, you'll do just fine.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely do your research on the surrounding neighborhoods, the facilities and resources that BU provides in order to further your academic career. Also, definitely try to figure which way you learn best and develop a study plan and a solid, organized schedule from that.

In three sentences

BU is in the intellectual capital of the country: Boston. There are so many opportunities that the school provides in order for students to capitalize on the myriad educational and cultural experiences available across the city. There's a ton of interesting, great professors and a diverse range of groups and organizations to join.

Shriya from Fremont, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Extremely safe. Just be smart- don't be drunk and wandering the city streets by yourself at 3 AM, ya know?

Greek Life

It's your personal choice. Join or don't, but it's not a huge deal.

Bang for the buck

It's expensive.

What to do for fun

So much. The city is your oyster.

Tips for prospective students

Show your commitment! Prove that you are a serious student with a lot of potential, which can shine through in grades, extracurriculars, scores and essays.

In three sentences

BU offers its students a variety of academic programs as well research and extracurricular opportunities. Located at the heart of Boston, BU is for active students who would like to become involved in the community as well as receive a top-notch education.

Keith from Alpharetta, GA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Bang for the buck

As a private school, BU is a little pricey ($60,000ish per year), but financial aid and payment plans make affording this world-class school easy.

Food and Dining

Each dining hall has the best something on campus, so it just depends on what you want to eat. There are also nifty little pizza stores called Domino's that deliver to dorms until 2am.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is whatever you make it. You have West Campus, known for it's lively dorm floor activities. You have Warren, known for being the largest non-military dorm in the country. You have StuVi2 which is a beautiful glass structure made out of hopes and dreams where upperclassmen disappear into the upper class of living environments.

Academic Rigor

BU is a little infamous for grade deflation, but that isn't a problem if you stick to yourself. When you focus on your studying and don't worry about others maybe doing better than you, you'll do the best that you can do and you won't fail.

Tips for prospective students

BU is a global school, so make sure you project yourself as a global student. Being valedictorian is fantastic, but if that's only a bullet point on a resume, it doesn't mean anything. You need a poster or a video or an essay that makes you you.

In three sentences

Boston University is by far the friendliest campus I have ever visited. Many of the staff for services regarding student interaction were once students at BU, so they know what you want and need to know. There was not a single thing I disliked about the university.

Stephanie from Boston, MA

- Expect lots of red tape and no communication between departments. - Come a bit earlier to wade through all the paperwork

In three sentences

Boston University's Theatre MFA program is a small grad program, shared with undergrads, taught by professors that are working professionals. The resources are great, the learning is hands-on and is largely production driven. Expect to work hard, long hours but the final product will be rewarding.

BU can be challenging is you are aiming to receive A's and A-'s consistently. Otherwise, you can count on getting a B- /B.

Tips for prospective students

Become a self- starter. University staff will assist you administratively, but you have to know what you actually want in terms of your major. Use BU's facilities as much as you can. Everything is pretty modern and comes at no additional cost.

Anonymous

Not a dominating presence overall, although West Campus seems to be where a lot of the sorority girls and frat guys live.

Clubs and Activities

There are tons of clubs, a lot for international students and Greek life though.

Great for these types of students

Great for people who like to feel totally independent.

What to do for fun

Not a whole lot to do for nightlife unless you're 21. You can always explore the city and what it has to offer, just make sure you can afford the T!

Food and Dining

As far as college food goes, it's good. Lots of variety and plenty of options if you don't feel like going to the dining hall. The dining hall is pretty good at changing up the options. There's always the basics of pizza salad and sandwiches.

Dorm Life

The dorms are extremely small and it's a little frustrating to have to wait for the elevator all of the time. If you're in a school on east/central campus (SMG, COM, CAS) try to live on east/central campus - the BUS isn't always reliable and is too full most of the time so you end up walking 20 minutes.

Academic Rigor

There is major grade deflation. Getting an A is nearly impossible. There's a lot of work, pretty much like any other place.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely try to do an overnight visit to see if you really like it. Talk to some current students and make sure you explore on your own in addition to where the tour shows you.

In three sentences

It is a big school, which makes it easy to feel lost. The campus is spread out, so it's like you're living in the city instead of on campus. The food is amazing

Marc from Warminster, PA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Always people around...just be aware of your surroundings on campus during late night and when you're roaming around off campus

Clubs and Activities

Finance Club

Great for these types of students

Students who have an average of a A- or above for their 4 years in high school

Bang for the buck

Boston University is the best school I've found so far. It's well-rounded in its academics, extracurricular activities, and study abroad and internship opportunities.

What to do for fun

Movies, bowling, and anything else you can imagine because Boston has it all!

Food and Dining

Many foods to chose from in and out of the campus

Dorm Life

Comfortable dorms with many accommodations available

Academic Rigor

Be prepared to work hard and not slack. As are not just given out...you must work for them and in classes with over 150 or so students, you must get exam scores that are above the class average in order to get a good grade (B/A)

Boston University sits in an AMAZING location along the Charles River. With easy access to several T stops, you have access to the entire city! This school offers numerous and various different majors, to suit everyone's needs.

Olga from Greensboro, NC

01/01/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Security Guards are present in all of the larger dorms. BU police can sometimes be nuisance, but they generally keep the campus very safe. Even with last years robberies near campus, no one got hurt and the culprits were caught. You will geat a massive amount of BU Alerts though.

Greek Life

There are many sororities and fraternities from purely social ones to co-ed community service one and interest-based fraternities, such as the business or the Jewish frats.

Clubs and Activities

Great variety of different interest clubs from tons of A Capella groups, to theater organizations, to plenty of community service activities and a multitude of cultural groups. These groups usually hold events on campus which are open to all students, even those not in these clubs.

Great for these types of students

BU is great for students who want a big university with a vast amount of options for clubs and activities. This university s great for those who do not sit still and want to try new things. It is not a big sports school, which does not have a football team, so hockey must be sufficient enough for the students who go here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a group on campus which gives Free Hugs every Friday at Marsh Plaza. There is an eating challenge (Rhett's Challenge) consisting of a huge burger, fried, soda and 24 scoops of ice cream, all to be eaten in 30 mins for the food to be free and the glory to be eternal. If you go to the School of Education before it closes around 9, you could stay there as long as you want into the night. The Center for Gender and Sexuality has Free Bagels on Fridays.

Bang for the buck

Boston University is quite expensive, however, you do get access to great academics and resources. Also, you have a variety of options for social and club activities. Its location makes it perfect for finding jobs and internships in the city.

What to do for fun

You can go to hockey games, or to the multitude of events that different clubs and cultural groups hold on campus every week. They are advertised at the GSU (Student Union.) You also have easy access to the city of Boston which has a great variety of cultural opportunities such a museums and historical sites. There is great shopping on Newbury Street and at the Prudential Center. There are tons of restaurants. Some great Italian ones are located at the North End, along with Mike's Pastries and Modern Pastries, both of which are a must try.

Food and Dining

The food is much better than most other colleges and universities. The dinning halls are open all day until 9, which makes it convenient to eat at any time through out the day. The only inconvenience is that they do not stay open later. But there are Late-Night options. Extreme Pita in West campus is the best.

Dorm Life

The dorms are not terrible, but they are not huge. Every once in a while the bigger dorms may have mice. Some of the floor-mates will be loud.

Academic Rigor

Very rigorous. Good grades are hard to attain due to grade deflation. But it is not impossible if you do your homework, study, go to tutoring sessions, ask the professor questions, and use other academic resources such as librarians and other professors.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to talk to your professors. Find a club, or a few, that you are interested in. Become involved. Attend as many student events as possible. Be able to say No to clubs/activities when it becomes overwhelming. Make sure to go to at least one hockey game. Talk to the people on your floor. Live in Warren freshman year as it is the best for meeting new people. Make sure to take some time for yourself, even with a busy schedule.

In three sentences

Boston University is a diverse community of highly motivated students. It has many opportunities, although they are not always easy to find. It is a great university, but it also has its problems.

Sagar from Cheshire, CT

People often explore the city of Boston, and there are plenty of things to do on and off campus

Food and Dining

The dining halls here are excellent; you get what you pay for.

Dorm Life

The dorms here are great, except the RAs at times can be strict.

Academic Rigor

Again, it depends on what major you are but lab classes are a lot of work but pay off in the end. BU also deflates your grades which is tough.

Tips for prospective students

If you really love the city or want a change from the suburbs, BU is great! Be prepared to put in the work for good grades; it is tough to get As here.

In three sentences

The courses can be very easy or very tough, depending on what field you are interested in. There are all sorts of people here, so it is not very difficult to find a group of friends with similar interests as you. The campus is very active and is in a prime location.

CG

12/22/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Concerts in the city!

In three sentences

I like how even though this campus is sprawling, the buildings feel cohesive with their red markers. There is an addictive energy to the campus that makes you feel ready to meet new people and explore. Lots of options for majors. So many people to meet!

Evan from Mcallen, TX

12/18/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

Very appetizing as far as I can tell from my visit to BU. There are many options, though I especially enjoyed the Kosher dining section. Down in McAllen, I have to drive 4 hours to San Antonio before even finding anything kosher!

Dorm Life

Since the city's literally in your backyard, there is a plethora of opportunities to explore the city. The dorms themselves are quite nice

Academic Rigor

Again, still a prospective student, though I have heard it is definitely not a school for those who are looking for an easy degree.

Tips for prospective students

Actually, as I am one of them, I have a question: What is the most important aspect of one's application to BU. What's the determining factor?

In three sentences

I really enjoyed visiting the campus. Even though its quite large, its not hard to find your way around it, especially with the helpful staff of the school. Though I have only applied, I think BU is a fantastic place.

Koreena from Oregon City, OR

I find myself walking alone at night and I don't fear for my safety. BU has its own police force, the blue box system, and a great relationship with the Boston PD.

Greek Life

It exists, but isn't really present on campus. We don't have houses that frats or sororities live in.

Clubs and Activities

If you can think of it, BU has a club for it. There are over 500 organizations.

Great for these types of students

BU is great for any type of student, and that's what one finds here: lots of diversity.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a huge seal on the ground in Marsh Plaza (located in central campus) that is rumored to hold bad luck (namely, no diploma awarded) for those students who walk over it. After graduation in May, one can see many graduated seniors triumphantly standing on top of it, having their pictures taken.

Bang for the buck

I love BU and the experience I'm gaining here, but the money is a little tough to swallow. I find myself constantly worrying about my student loans, and holding down two jobs in an attempt to pay on the principles while I'm still in school.

What to do for fun

One of the reasons I chose BU is because its literally located in downtown Boston. There's lots to do! Boston has so much history, and I have (on many occasions) taken a few hours to go to the Museum of Fine Arts and Isabella Stewart Gardiner Museum (BU students have free admission) and many other places. Boston is your playground when you attend BU.

Food and Dining

The food is ok. The dining halls do prepare everything fresh and have a lot of fruits and vegetable to pick from, but there isn't a lot of variety in the meals (everything tastes the same) and they seem to have a problem stocking the self-serve drink stations, dishes, silverware, etc...

Dorm Life

I personally hate dorm life. I don't have a kitchen to prepare my own meals, I have to share a bathroom with 25 other girls (who are quite possibly the messiest human beings I've ever met), and I live in a 9x9 room with a roommate. I'm a very private person, and dorm life has been a stretch for me.

Academic Rigor

A B-/C grade earned in a Boston University course is equivalent to an A-/B+ earned at other colleges. This is due to the fact that Boston University grades all classes on a rigid curve, making it very hard to earn the much sought after 4.0. (Google search grade deflation bu and read the NY Times article by Samuel G. Freedman).

Tips for prospective students

Unfortunately, SATs are one of the most important things BU looks at when awarding financial aid. Make sure you score above a 1950 and you'll probably get a merit scholarship.

In three sentences

Boston University was my first choice school from the eighth grade to my senior year of high school. This college is home to dedicated, passionate professors who truly love teaching, and students who have a yearning for knowledge. Though it's quite pricey and the financial aid offered isn't ideal, BU is the only school I could see myself attending.

The food at 100 Bay State Road is amazing. There are international, gluten-free, vegan, and comfort food options every day. There are ample choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also, special events like Lobster Night, the Visiting Chef Series, and Make-a-Difference Monday give the students an exciting, new perspective on what they eat and where it comes from.

Dorm Life

The dormitory residence of Kilachand Hall fosters a close-knit community. Students are housed in double and triple rooms that are connected to form suites with adjoining bathrooms. Laundry, lounging, and kitchen facilities were updated this past semester and offer a comfortable atmosphere and practical, efficient utility.

Academic Rigor

Boston University has a difficult grading scale. The courses are challenging in the College of Arts and Sciences where language, mathematics, and writing requirements (in addition to divisional studies or CORE curriculum) guarantee that students receive a varied, liberal arts, education.

Tips for prospective students

Prepare for the unpredictable weather. There are wind, cold, heat, rain, and snow! Also, be ready to work hard if you plan to maintain solid grades. The curriculum at any of the colleges within BU are demanding, no matter how many AP classes you took in high school.

In three sentences

Boston University is located in the urban environment of Boston which provides many opportunities for students to explore both themselves and the world around them by visiting places such as the Museum of Fine Arts, the Freedom Trail, the Boston Public Library, the Esplanade, and or anywhere that is accessible by foot, bike, or the 'T' subway system (numerous stops on campus). There are excellent sporting facilities such as the newly completed New Balance Field or Agganis Arena.

Kara from NY

11/26/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

BU dining service is amazing! With three massive dining halls, and student food court, and multiple locations on campus that accept BU dining point (like Jamba Juice and Starbucks!) there is definitely a great variety. BU dining also has fantastic student response rates. They really care about the quality of dining they provide.

Dorm Life

Freshman dorms are great for making friends. With various types of dorm and apartment living available, you will definitely find the best fit for you. From the large dormitory life, to small suite-style dorms, to apartment living, there are so many options to choose from.

Academic Rigor

BU is a great school with high standards. Of course you can find easy A classes as well as impossibly hard classes. With many different schools and fields to choose from within BU, you will be sure to find the niche for you. Make sure to take classes that stimulate your interests, not what you think may be easy.

Tips for prospective students

You have to love city life to love BU! If you want a typical college with rolling hills and wide, green grass, this is not the place for you. However, BU offers so much more than a city experience.

In three sentences

Boston University is a diverse, urban campus that offers extensive opportunities in an academic and social setting. At BU, you will make great friends from all over the world, while also studying your passions. BU will be your home and Boston is your campus.

Jane

This school is great for dedicated and hard working students who will take advantage of the opportunities and not give up in the face of a challenge.

What to do for fun

Located in the heart of Boston there are endless events always going on both on and off of campus. The Charles River runs alongside the school and is a great place to enjoy.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared to work hard.

In three sentences

Boston University is a prestigious university with classes that will challenge you. There are many great opportunities available during school and for career opportunities in the future. The professors are all well accomplished and really want each student to succeed.

Celeste from Penfield, NY

When I am able to I attend concerts- on campus and off, go to the public market at Haymarket, visit with friends.

Food and Dining

I am vegan, so it is awesome! There is something every day for me to eat and it varies. There are also days I come across vegan cookies and brownies:) It you are not vegan/vegetarian there is a lot to choose from also. There are 3 main dining halls. I eat mostly at West Campus and the new dining facility at Bay Street.

Dorm Life

It is what you make of it, Busy schedules don't leave a lot of time for social interaction on the floor. I met my roommate on BU facebook page class of 2017. We chatted for several weeks before we felt we were compatible. We love the same music, books, poetry and we are both science majors. Our floor has monthly meetings, but we haven't had any social outings yet.

Academic Rigor

Each class is four credits, which leaves two credits remaining to fill in with physical education classes which vary from .5 to 2 credits. The four classes fill up you time quickly, including the outside study and prep of these classes. If you add a job into the schedule, it is tough. I currently have only 1 credit physical education class in my schedule. Adjusting to living away for home for the first time, and taking science base classes, I am finding I like BU very much, but it is HARD.

Tips for prospective students

West campus is a space that gives you the most traditional campus feeling , all other housing, is definitely city living; you walk right out of your dorm onto the city street. The BU shuttle is a great way to travel to classes, but I have gone through 75.00 in two months using the T to visit friends at Emerson, Northeastern and just visiting Boston. If you live in the dorms, a meal plan is required. I have the 14 day plan which gives me two meals a day. I use convenience points for a day I can't get to the dining halls and also use the points when I do my laundry.

In three sentences

A sense of community has been apparent from orientation to now my second month at BU. I am very busy from morning to night with my classes and job. But, my roommate and other friends from Northeastern and MIT are able to see each other and enjoy some concerts and fun in Boston!

The courses require a lot of reading, but the reading is very interesting and exciting. I've found myself more frustrated with my inability to fully enjoy the reading than I have with the heavy workload.

In three sentences

Great school in a great location. Boston University has a bounty of course offerings teeming with brilliant scholars renowned in their fields. The work load is exciting as the readings only increased my excitement over the material.

Rachel from Boston, MA

With the new dining hall on Bay State Road, I feel comfortable in rating the food a solid four stars. While the food does become a little repetitive, health and tasty options are alway available.

Dorm Life

There are many different dorm options for both returning and incoming students. Students can choose the dorm that is right for them, and most of the time are very happy with their choice. Despite there being no in depth survey of likes and dislikes, I have yet to meet anybody who is not happy with their roommate

Academic Rigor

As a student on a science track, Boston University requires students to dedicate a substantial amount of time to academics. In particular, the Chemistry 101 course, required for nearly all students majoring in a natural science, is extremely challenging.

Tips for prospective students

If you are an incoming freshman, don't feel that you have to live in Warren. You can be very happy living in another dorm if you feel that the atmosphere of Warren Towers isn't right for you. Incoming science/pre-meds: Chem is going to be hard. Start preparing now, and be willing to start studying right from the beginning.

Go to the gym. Hang out with friends. Go into the city. See a Red Sox game.

Food and Dining

Food is great. No complaints. Lots of variety.

Dorm Life

West Campus is the place to be. However, you can't go wrong with any area around campus. Not so easy to share the bathroom, but we are making it work.

Academic Rigor

I am just a freshman, but so far so good. I have a full load, but time to get things done. The professors seem good so far.

Tips for prospective students

Take a college tour. Research the different schools within the university. Get involved.

In three sentences

BU is an awesome school. BU has so many things to offer, not to mention it is in one of the best cities around. The population of BU is so diverse, people from all across the world. This is one of the things I like best about the school.

Anonymous

09/16/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is a lot to do for fun since BU is right in the middle of Boston. There are many many many places to eat (which is what I like to do). If you stay on campus you can go to the gym (which is a really nice facility, make sure to take advantage of it if you attend BU)! If you like venturing out into the city there are plays, movies, shopping, everything you could ever want to do, you just have to find it.

Food and Dining

BU has many dining halls where you can eat as well as on campus places like Extreme Pita which taking dining points. There are a lot of Starbucks' on campus if you are someone who loves Starbucks like me. Sometimes the food in the dining hall can get a little repetitive but at the same time it is still good. Whenever I don't want to eat dining hall food there are a lot of places on campus where you can eat. The best dining hall to eat on campus is definitely Bay State which is like a restaurant style dining hall and the food is really good.

Dorm Life

I think the best dorms are West Campus where I live. There are 3 buildings - Claflin, Sleeper, and Rich. To me, some of the dorms are kind of small but I live in a triple so that has a little bit more space. Being in a dorm you get to meet a lot of people who are not necessarily in the same school or major as you which is really good. My roommates and floor mates were the first people I met when I moved onto campus.

Academic Rigor

I am a Biology major pre-med here and I've only been in school for two weeks but the work catches up really fast. If you attend this school, especially if you plan to major in the sciences, make sure to read any material BEFORE the lecture. This will help you to understand the lecture material more. After learning something in a past chapter or lecture, CONTINUE to review it so that when the exam arrives you will be prepared and know the material inside and out. Make sure to set aside enough time to study during the week and on the weekend so that you will feel confident in the material in order to do well on the exam.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to manage your time wisely so that you can do more than just study. Boston is a really great city and you don't want to miss out on what it has to offer!

In three sentences

A very big school so you can meet a lot of people. There is a lot to do since you are right in the city of Boston. It is a pretty expensive.

Jennifer

08/15/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

It is an open campus, so always be careful. Try to stay on the main roads at night when it is dark, or travel with a friend. Campus Security also offers an escort service if you do not want to travel alone. There is a police station right on campus, and will respond to your calls very quickly.

Greek Life

Boston University has many sororities and fraternities on campus.

Great for these types of students

Boston University offers all four branches of ROTC on campus: Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

West campus has the best burgers. The cookies in the dining halls are delicious and addicting, be careful. School of Management has a Starbucks that takes Dining Points. The GSU is a great place to grab a bite to eat, hang out, and study.

What to do for fun

There is a lot to do for fun. I would recommend getting involved in a club or intramural sports or something of your interest. Also, the hockey games are a big part of BU life. Theres plenty to do in Boston so you can also get off campus and explore the big city.

Food and Dining

The food and dining is very good. Boston University just build a brand new dining hall. There are always many different options for food. Pizza, burgers, a salad bar, soup, and a sandwich bar are always offered. They also have different stations that offer a variety of meals every night, and usually offer different types of ethnic foods.

Dorm Life

It's all about what you make of it. You have the potential to be best friends with your roommate but you have to be open-minded and willing to compromise. There are many different options for housing. The Student Villages are the nicest, but they are reserved for upper classmen. As a freshman, I would recommend living in Warren Towers or West Campus, because that is where most freshman live and it will give you the chance to meet the most people. A lot of the times, your floormates become your best friends.

Academic Rigor

Boston University will challenge you mentally. You will be surrounded by many people who are your academic equals, which is a shock for most people who are used to being the top of their high school class.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard. Be open-minded. Meet new people. Get involved. Enjoy yourself. Take time to explore the wonderful city of Boston.

In three sentences

Boston University is filled with hard-working, dedicated, and smart students. It is an excellent school for all types of majors, ranging from engineering to communications to management to fine arts. Boston University is known for its diversity, and houses many students from all around the world!

Paul from San Antonio, TX

08/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

BU is a university in an urban city setting. The campus police are notorious for being in the middle of busting parties and arresting students for underage drinking meanwhile armed robberies, attacks, and assaults are going on the same nights. That being said, it is a minority of students who have negative or unsafe experiences.

Greek Life

The Greek Life is there and very active if you want to join, but it is not an overwhelming presence. It continues to grow and can be a very positive experience. The Greek organizations hold philanthropy events to raise money for charity as well as volunteering their time with nonprofit organizations to help out the Boston community.

Clubs and Activities

Hundreds of student clubs based on just about every interest/activity. There are both club and intramural sports that anybody can participate in, and many different options for sports teams.

Great for these types of students

Students who want a diverse student body, a large school with a tight-knit community.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Rhett's Challenge - an eating competition Knight's Quest - after you turn 21, drink one of every beer offered at the BU Pub and become an official knight of the Pub.

Bang for the buck

It is one of the most expensive schools in the country, but can be frustrating since you do not see the faces of administration sans behind their desks trying to raise more money and schmooze donors.

What to do for fun

The whole city of Boston is at your fingertips. You can hang out with your friends in the neighboring town, Allston, and visit off-campus students in their houses or you can head up to Cambridge for hipster activities. There are tons of coffee shops around if you like to get off campus but still study, and a lot of concert venues, small to large, for the constant shows that are here.

Food and Dining

The food is phenomenal and they tend to have many healthy options. It seems to be easier to find vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options than other universities, but it is not perfect (there's likely one choice if you fall into those categories).

Dorm Life

There are a number of different kinds of living situations, and you are guaranteed housing for four years. It is just very expensive to live on-campus.

Academic Rigor

One of the toughest schools to receive an A grade at. When you do, it really makes you feel special.

Tips for prospective students

Explore many different classes as it is possible to change your major and double-, even triple-, major; also, take advantage of small classes and get to know your professors because they are really there for the students.

In three sentences

BU has incomparable academics and will challenge anyone more than they ever have before. It is a diverse and large school with a very tight-knit, small feel; you run into the same people multiple times per week. With a large university, however, comes too much bureaucracy and it is discouraging when administration does not see eye-to-eye with the students.

Nick from Bay Shore, NY

08/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There have been a few incidents that lead me to question the BUPD's control (the tasering at the snowball fight, for instance). Other than that, it's an extremely safe campus-- just use your head at night.

Greek Life

Not really a big thing at BU-- but if it's what you want, you can definitely find a way.

Clubs and Activities

If there isn't a club that you want, you can start your own, provided that you have prospective members and a statement of intent. FitRec has pretty much every possible physical activity that one could want, and for academic/enjoyment clubs, there are plenty that take place in CAS after dark.

Great for these types of students

Pretty much any type of student will find a way to be comfortable here. You can make a big school feel as small as you want. You aren't obligated to be social and outgoing, but if you choose to be, you have one of the largest campuses on the East coast at your fingertips.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't walk on the seal!

Bang for the buck

Not only does BU provide a top notch academic experience, but you have an entire city at your disposal. Almost every attraction in Boston will provide student discounts for simply showing them your ID (movies, the aquarium, museums, etc).

What to do for fun

Boston really is the most charming city. Indie theaters, shopping on Newbury, the JFK museum, walking along the harbor, day-tripping to Salem or Providence, grabbing an Asian dish from Super 88, running along the esplanade, etc.

Food and Dining

The best dining halls of any university I have ever visited. BU frequently invites renowned chefs to do special plates, there are always holiday dishes, smart eating for those who like eat healthy-- it really does have it all.

Dorm Life

There is a housing style to suit everyone. Warren, Towers, and the west campus dormitories provide large, social living experiences that might be beneficial to Freshman. Bay State road and south campus have small brownstone dorms which provide a more close-knit experience with a lax guest policy, as well as providing specialty housing to cater to those of similar interests/backgrounds. There are also apartment style accommodations for those who would like a completely independent experience.

Academic Rigor

The new mean SAT score at BU is 2016, and it's rising every year-- 2013 had an all time low admittance rate of around 30%. It sits right across the river from the mavericks: MIT and Harvard-- and it's doing everything in its power to compete.

Tips for prospective students

Focus on making yourself a stand-out in addition to attaining good grades/test scores; do some volunteer work or complete a research project-- anything that will give you an edge.

In three sentences

An enormous, open-campus located in the heart of the most charming city on Earth. Art, museums, history and cultural diversity are a dime a dozen in Boston, and BU is the tour guide. There is never a dull moment, and always something to do/someone to meet.

Ruth from Phoenix, AZ

08/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

BU is extremely safe. I've never felt threatened, although this past year has met many unfortunate tragedies. The BU police department is located in West and there are security card swipe checkpoints at all the major dorms where you must swipe in your ID.

Greek Life

I'm not part of Greek life, but it definitely has a presence at BU.

Clubs and Activities

BU is so big, so you have no excuse about joining clubs and activities. There are over 500 clubs on campus. I myself have found a lot of my college experience in joining clubs. These are the ones I know a bit about and will advertise: International Affairs Association (IAA) which hosts MUN conferences and discussions on global affairs, On Broadway which is one of the best theater clubs on campus for acting or teching, Asian Student Union (and other cultural/religious groups for all kinds of backgrounds), Programming Council which is in charge of hosting all kinds of events, Patch Adams Campus Club which works to carry out Patch Adams' ideology in medicine, and the Community Service Center where you can become involved with all sorts of volunteer opportunities including the Alternative Spring Breaks. Don't forget sports, academic groups and so on!

Bang for the buck

It's always hard to determine whether something is worth your money. I was unsure on whether to put 3 or 4 stars because BU is expensive, but so are other schools. I hear many students complain about high tuition and increases, but according to reliable sources, it only increased by a small percent especially compared to other schools. I feel that BU has given me many opportunities and taught me a lot, so I do feel that BU is worth the money. Of course, I would love for it to be cheaper. But it is ultimately up to the individual on how wisely the money is spent. Try not to skip lectures (those technically cost money). Take advantage of free events and giveaways. And maybe get a job.

What to do for fun

Especially in the beginning of the year, BU plans a lot of great events which brings people together to have fun. They do a great job of welcoming freshmen. I highly recommend going to the event in the beginning of the year called Splash! You get to check out what kind of activities you can get involved in at BU and snag up some free stuff! Joining clubs and organizations will also help you to meet more people and find more fun things to do. Of course, there are plenty of ways to have fun off campus.

Food and Dining

For a huge school like BU, the food and dining is pretty good. As a freshman, you can have very easy access to the dining halls (watch out for freshman 15 though!) if you live at either Warren or West. Warren food is okay, but West is better. The lines can get long, depending on what time you eat. The new dining hall, Marciano Commons, is beautiful and does have the best food. The George Sherman Union is a great place to eat (they have a food court with Panda Express and Charles River Bread Co.) and study (they have comfy booths).

Dorm Life

The dorms are not the best, but it also depends on where you end up. Sometimes, I hear complaints, but I haven't had much to complain about. There aren't many options especially when you're looking to dorm in the later years and it is a lottery system, but they do have summer swap and you can look to live off-campus. Dorm life overall is a friendly experience. Freshmen typically live in Warren or West and is a great way to meet other freshmen.

Academic Rigor

BU is definitely academically prestigious. Many students come from different high schools where they were leaders and valedictorians (or at least high-ranked) so there will definitely be competition. It is very difficult to get an A but it is possible. Depending on the courses, you could also be facing big workloads, but it's always reasonable and for your own good. BU is definitely a place to learn and grow.

Tips for prospective students

Boston University is not an extremely selective school so I wouldn't stress too much about getting in, although it is getting harder every year. I would suggest making yourself appear like a well-rounded person with good grades, good SAT scores and activities here and there with a leadership role to be secure. I would also suggest visiting the school to see if it's your kind of fit. It does get cold so be careful if you don't like snow!

In three sentences

Boston University is such a great place to be educated, find connections, and have fun. It is a big school located in the best city that you could hope to find jobs, internships or volunteer opportunities in. It wasn't my first choice college, but I have no regrets on having chosen BU as my college.

I really do think BU is worth the price tag. Sure, it's very expensive, but we're getting so many great opportunities here. Though your semester bill may never cease to shock you, your experiences at BU make up for that.

What to do for fun

Explore Boston! We are located in the heart of an amazing city and there is something new to do each week. Take a walk down Newbury Street or head to the harbor. On campus, there are usually student plays, concerts, or events every weekend as well. Check out BU Central for some great comedy shows and awesome concerts. Go to one of a million sporting events if that's your thing. It's never boring at BU.

Food and Dining

The opening of Marciano dining hall has brought great improvement of the food. The food is fresh and always interesting. The array of food in the GSU is also great and the options make it easy to grab lunch wherever you are.

Dorm Life

Living in a dorm here is possibly the best way to make friends. It really ends up feeling like a family. The downside is that BU, like most colleges, does have pretty small rooms and the buildings aren't brand new.

Academic Rigor

Good grades aren't easily earned at BU. Getting A's requires a great deal of effort, but most professors are very willing to meet with you to discuss the course and your progress.

Tips for prospective students

Take advantage of the opportunities available at BU. You can study nearly anything you could imagine, you can join a club for just about any interest you have, and you can meet people from all over the world. It may seem overwhelming at first being at such a large school, but get to know the people around you and it will feel like a family.

In three sentences

BU has amazing academics that will surely look good on any resume. The professors are very dedicated, and there are ample opportunities to expand your knowledge. The campus life is amazing, having both a close college feel and the availability of the entire city.

Avra from N White Plains, NY

Like any city school! Pretty safe, police around and helpful- do their best!

Clubs and Activities

There are so many!! I wish I had joined more ut I was shy and nervous but I did take ballet classes at the FItRec and that was a great experience, fun, low-key, low-pressure! All the classes were like that and its nice to just get away from the rush of school and life to decompress a bit!

Great for these types of students

Anyone who wants to challenge themselves academically and broaden their horizons, their study abroad programs are fantastic. Anyone interested in Linguistics, the department at BU is fantastic!! Any type of student that loves learning!!

Bang for the buck

I think this really depends on the way you look at it! I mean its expensive and that's that, all private schools are, and that is what secondary education looks like in this country sadly so you make the best of it, you take out loans and hope to get scholarships and get a great job after graduation. Make the best of it!

What to do for fun

There is so much to do! Stuff at the school, hosted by the school or by clubs and students, all kinds of things to do in the city! Museums, movies, sports games, the list goes on and on!!!! I love museums so I went over and over. I went to the Gibson House, the Otis House and other famous Beacon Hill Houses that are now museums, etc. The Isabella Stewart Gardner is one of a kind as well!! There is just so much!!! SO great :)

Food and Dining

I thought the food in the dining halls were really quite good compared to so many schools I visited and the ones my friends had! There were so many options and they changed daily, they had vegetarian and vegan options as well as a salad bar, a sandwich bar and cereal all day long! The GSU has more fun, mainstream places to eat like Panda Express, Starbucks, Jamba Juice, etc. and theres another Starbucks and Subway down by Warren Towers that is quite popular among students not to mention Einsteins in CAS and Starbucks in SMG. Lots of places to go on the go!!

Dorm Life

Most would say the dorms aren't that nice and well, they probably would be right. I guess I should complain because it is such an expensive school but I don't really know how to change it, there are lots of schools with not-so-great dorms but at least there is a lot of places to live and the opportunity to move if someone really wants to. Just gotta be patient for housing and just make the best of it or go off campus or study abroad like I did!

Academic Rigor

It is extremely rigorous at BU, despite what anyone says. I had a really tough time at first. I was in the general studies school and I wasnt thrilled with my courses so I had a challenging time but once I found my major and started taking courses I really loved, it became a labor of love, still extremely difficult but I knew I was truly learning. Nothing is just handed out at BU and there are no A+s which I like because I don't think anyone should be perfect or strive to be, we learn by accumulating information and retaining it, memorizing and getting 100% is not the equivalent to perfection and smarts so I like that BU is tough, teaches people to work hard and get what you deserve and always strive to be better!

Tips for prospective students

Don't be fooled by the old dorms and non-quad campus, BU has so much to offer! There is so much going on and so much to study, and that's why you're there, isn't it? So many opportunities and the chance to always be meeting people and taking chances and trying things. It is in the city which also has incredible things to offer yet is not entirely overwhelming like NYC or LA. So many college students and so much to accomplish!

In three sentences

Boston University takes getting used to but overall is a really wonderful place to study as a student and grow as a person. It has an urban feel but is not overwhelming and has such a large range of majors and opportunities to supplement one's education. At first, it was a transition but upon leaving, I was sad it was all over yet extremely grateful for all the learning, for studying abroad twice, making lifetime friends and for being a really amazing and challenging and rewarding four years!

Rebecca from Milford, CT

07/19/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

What is there NOT to do for fun?? On campus, if you're interested, Greek Life offers a close bond of friendship and networking (there are all sorts of Greek options: professional, academic, social, service oriented groups are just a few). If you're not, no worries. Other on campus options abound in events at the GSU hosted by the school, regular dorm events with your floor hosted by the RA, and athletic events. Off campus, the entire city of Boston is quite literally 3 stops on the T--Fenway park is even within walking distance. There are always discounted college events in the city, and just walking around and exploring the Esplanade or the waterfront is a great way to spend a fall or spring Sunday afternoon. Boston IS America's college town, and BU is right in the thick of it.

Food and Dining

Food is excellent across the board. Our most humble dining locale, Warren Towers, is better than every single other college's best dining option (I toured 9 different colleges in high school NOT including BU). Yes, it's alittle pricey, but it's more than worth the expense. BU's commitment to not only good food but healthy food is inspiring to me. Additionally, their vegan/vegetarian/gluten free options are more than encouraging.

Dorm Life

Freshmen dorms are pretty standard, nothing horrible or remarkable to note. These are pretty much the same at every college. However, the sophomore/upperclassmen options are pretty awesome. StuVi II, the luxury apartments, Bay State Rd brownstones, south campus apartments steps from Fenway Park, and all sorts of other real estate gems await the patient student at BU.

Academic Rigor

Classes are challenging here; there's no doubt about it. As are not handed out by any means, but they're not impossible to earn. If you are committed to succeed here, get used to going to office hours for extra help, consulting classmates, and really investing your time into getting work done well and in a timely manner. That said, the work is rewarding and interesting, for the most part. I have had multiple professors tie in subjects to current events/applicable situations, and heard some incredible stories about their own research and experience in their respective fields. Most impressionable was having a Nobel laureate for a professor and hearing about his experience traveling to Sweden to receive the prize.

Tips for prospective students

Get out there and explore! The internal drive to succeed and get involved is important anywhere you go, but being outgoing and passionate is almost a given here at BU. I've made lasting friends, professors that know me by name in a 400 person lecture, and made some priceless memories, but not by sitting in my dorm all afternoon. BU has so much to offer that it's a) unheard of and b) a shame to not experience everything it has to offer. Even if you join a club only to realize you don't like it and leave 2 weeks later, that's part of the experience. Talk to your floormates, your professors, and anyone that's willing to listen to you. You'll be SO much happier and you'll grow exponentially for it.

In three sentences

BU is great on all levels, micro to macro scales. Inside campus, classes, housing, food, and general facilities are excellently kept and easy to really find a place in. On a macro level, the city of Boston is our playground and it is an invaluable asset for professional, social, and academic growth and exploration.

Mallory

07/10/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

While on-campus students are relatively safe. Police are continuously patrolling the area. However, many students live off-campus because it is often cheaper. But, living off campus also means there are less patrols.

Greek Life

Greek life is somewhat strong at BU. There are a variety of Sororities and Fraternities that students can choose from.

Clubs and Activities

BU offers so many clubs. Each year before school starts students can attend SPLASH, which is an event where all the clubs are at booths with information and sign-up sheets. If you don't find what you're looking for, then starting your own club is relatively easy.

Great for these types of students

Academics, Go-getters, and Creative students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

BU Pub is a bar on campus in The Castle, an old building where the president of the school used to reside. Once you are of age, then you can pursue becoming a Knight by drinking so many beers, and have a Knighting ceremony with all of your friends in attendance.

Bang for the buck

BU is awfully expensive, but they do offer generous amounts of financial aid to those in need. Work Study positions are abundant, as well as part-time on-campus jobs. I think going to BU has definitely been worth the money because of the experiences and opportunities I have had.

What to do for fun

Go to the MFA for free. Walk down the esplanade. Go to a concert. Boston and BU have so many activities to offer, and you will never be bored.

Food and Dining

BU dining services are outstanding. So many options are available at every meal so you won't get bored. There are also several specialty nights throughout the year including lobster night, Chinese New Year, and dishes prepared by chefs from local restaurants. Sargent Choice is the healthy eating option on campus and offers seriously good and nutritious options at every meal.

Dorm Life

Living in Warren Towers (freshmen dorms) was the best year of my life. My floor consisted of about 40 people (co-ed), and we all became very close. Over the next 3 years, we still hung out every weekend. Warren Towers has everything you need, including a dining hall.

Academic Rigor

It's extremely difficult to receive an A at BU. It's not impossible, but students really must put in the effort.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students should know that you really have to make your own opportunities at BU. While the school does offer so many majors and activities, you must take the initiative to find out about the different clubs. Or if the club doesn't exist, you can create it. BU is very supportive of students' ideas and aspirations.

In three sentences

BU is expansive. It offers a wide array of clubs, activities, classes, and majors. If your'e looking for a big school atmosphere that's not particularly tight knit, then this school is for you.

BioEngStudent

Don't walk across the seal on Marsh Plaza. They say if you do you won't graduate on time.

What to do for fun

Boston has so much to do I couldn't possibly list it all here. Within BU there are lots of clubs and events going on you can find something to keep you busy any night of the week. Beyond campus, there's theater, music, hiking or kayaking on the Charles River, exploring the city, going to Cape Cod, really anything you can think of.

Food and Dining

As a student with food allergies, I can't say I'm very impressed. The food is generally good, but it's hard to find healthy options and even harder to find people who know what's actually in it or how it was prepared. BU has a lot of mouths to feed, but if you have any dietary restrictions, it's going to be tough. Being in Boston, the off-campus food options are plentiful, delicious and much cheaper.

Dorm Life

I lived in Warren towers, which was huge and hot and kind of miserable. There are good dorms on campus, and it wasn't unlivable, but you couldn't pay me to live there again. They are generally safe a close to campus, but tiny and EXPENSIVE for what you get.

Academic Rigor

BU has a famous policy of Grade Deflation. This is not a school for those people expecting an easy A. Getting into BU is much easier than doing well. It can be a bit of an adjustment at first, but the education is worth the extra work.

Tips for prospective students

Explore the city early! Don't wait until your senior year to get familiar with the city and surrounding areas. There are plenty of places to explore, but it's easy to get stuck in your comfort zone, so make an effort to check out new places both within the University and in the Boston area too.

In three sentences

BU is a great city experience for students who don't find a closed campus experience appealing. BU has a lot of room for students to figure out what they want to do and the resources to help them do it. It the perfect place for someone who wants a variety of experiences and who can set themselves apart from a crowd.

Kat from Austin, TX

07/05/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

I had the chance to be on campus while visiting Boston with my debate team. It has a perfect setting in the middle of such an amazing city and the more I learn about it the more I cannot wait to apply! I'm really impressed, just slightly concerned about the price of tuition.

JS

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

There's a ton of food within walking distance and the T makes it easy to eat anywhere in Boston. however, the dining halls also make amazing food, so there's no reason to bother leaving campus.

Dorm Life

I haven't much time in the dorms but the rooms are well maintained and kept clean. Like any dorm, bring plenty of padding for the bed. The dorms themselves are within easy reach of the class rooms and near plenty of food and fun.

Academic Rigor

Everyone I talk to says that the classes are well taught and the professors seem willing to help. That being said, be prepared to work hard, BU isn't recognized for nothing.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to register before orientation, and don't be afraid to ask questions.

In three sentences

The campus is very beautiful and mostly along one central street with a few buildings off to the side. The atmosphere is ecstatic and makes everyone feel welcome. There is no reason anyone shouldn't want to attend BU, because there motto is to Be You!

Flonora from Washington, DC

When I told people that I was going here, I heard nothing but good things about Boston University. Having a degree from here is bound to take you places.

Food and Dining

Eat from wherever. This the BU Online program.

Dorm Life

You're free to study from home, work, or wherever.

Academic Rigor

You will be challenged in their online Master's programs. You take one class every seven weeks It's a lot of information condensed into those 7 weeks, but it's a great schedule for those working professionals.

In three sentences

Boston University has one of the best online programs. The professors in the Criminal Justice program are top in their field. Enrolling in Boston University was the best thing I did for my career.

Emily from Pawtucket, RI

Outgoing, driven, energetic, intelligent, savvy students are most successful here. Clear headed, ambitious and happy people are also ones that thrive.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Twirl your index finger in a cone type motion every time you see someone wearing Boston College gear. We'll explain it when you get here. You'll learn.

Food and Dining

With the GSU and Raising Cane's and a Dunkin/Starbucks every 7 feet it's kind of hard not to like the food here. Be warned: the freshman 15 is real.

Dorm Life

The dorms here aren't your typical cramped, stuffy dorms you see in most colleges. My dorm was a pretty roomy double in the Agganis dorms with a window overlooking the city, which is perfect when you need a breather from studying or homework. There is always something to do around Boston, but our guest policy is like an Olympic event. Be sure your guests bring ID!

Academic Rigor

You will learn, and you will learn a lot, whether you like it or not. You will read. You will write. You will take exams and you will be determined to pass them. You will be given the tools to do all of the above. Use them.

Tips for prospective students

Boston is a fast city, which can be incredibly distracting. Invest in comfortable shoes. Invest in a lot of coffee. Schedule every hour of your day and budget time with friends and time with books- it can be overwhelming to do at first, but you will manage to have enough time for both! One last thing-- always go to a hockey game when you can.

In three sentences

BU is perfect for passionate, driven, unique students who need Boston as their backyard. It is the perfect blend of urban city living and a rigorous academic community. It is undoubtedly difficult but worth every second you dedicate.

Amira from South Bend, IN

I mean, Boston is a city, so muggings do happen and, if you bike, the roads can be dangerous. But I've never felt unsafe on campus.

Greek Life

Personally, Greek Life isn't for me. I mean, I didn't rush, so I can't really say. Maybe Greek Life is for you! But I don't like the parties, really. Or the attitude. So impersonal.

Clubs and Activities

Just get involved! The kids in the clubs are eager for you to join. Don't hesitate, and really throw yourself into getting to know people and doing things.

Great for these types of students

Independent, dying-to-succeed, ambitious, able-to-make-the-best-out-of-things types of people. If you get stuck in a mood a lot, and tend to brood, it will only worsen at BU. But if you take the time to look on the bright side and stay positive, it will work out well for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the seal in Marsh Plaza. Although every time I walk by it I want nothing other than to go stomp on it.

Bang for the buck

It's not the end of the world if you can't go to BU because it's too expensive. There are a lot of great schools out there. Try to get scholarships. I personally wouldn't pay the whole 50k to go to BU. But I'm definitely happy with how much I'm paying (which is about 20k). BU is a really fantastic school, and propels you forward in so many different ways.

What to do for fun

You can do a variety of things. You can go to frat parties, or you can just stay in and hang out with your friends in the dorms. You can join clubs that interest you and participate in club events (for example, the snowboarding club takes a trip to Quebec like twice a year, and anyone can go with). You can explore the city, go to movies, walk around downtown, chill in Boston Commons, go to Coolidge Corner.

Food and Dining

The best! You will feel like you are eating at a five star restaurant. The variety is always good too. Eating at Bay State is the best.

Dorm Life

Depends on the dorm you live in. West has a much more campus-y setting. Warren Towers can be extremely claustrophobic. I enjoyed my time there, because I was close to a lot of my best friends. But do not expect a traditional dorm setting at Warren Towers. (I hardly ever saw my RA, and chose not to mingle with my floor).

Academic Rigor

Grade deflation is prevalent. Teachers challenge you immensely. They really want you to work above and beyond for that A. But this also challenges students to press forward and actually take the time to study and do well with the material. And when you get the A, you'll feel like you actually earned it.

Tips for prospective students

It can be terrifying at first, as you won't know or will hardly know anyone around you. The city can swallow you up. You may wonder what life would be like in a traditional college campus setting. But although BU may not have some of the trademark things that other colleges offer, it has unlimited possibilities for you to explore both yourself and your future career. Success is so easy at BU. You have to work for it, but trust me, you will be motivated. Never look back and wonder what life would be like at a different college. The grass is always greener on the other side. Appreciate BU for the unique challenge that it is.

In three sentences

An academically challenging school with many fantastic opportunities, as long as you are ambitious and actively participate in what the school has to offer. It can be easy to get swallowed up in the mass of students at BU as it is so huge, but the school has many genuinely helpful professors who are interested in the well-being of each individual student. Also, as a large university, BU has an immense amount of unique clubs and groups that students can participate in.

Darryl from Peyton, CO

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

BU has some of the best food. The service is great and I love all of the chefs.

Dorm Life

Some of the dorms kind of suck, but they are large buildings. You also have the opportunity to stay in brownstones.

Academic Rigor

Most, not all, classes are difficult. There is a rumor of grade deflation (could be true), but I have no evidence of it. This makes classes more difficult.

In three sentences

The campus does not have the traditional campus feel, but if you are a modern city person it is amazing. Boston is a great city for college students with lots of opportunities. I think the students need a little more school spirit.

Samantha

04/23/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus Safety is taken extremely seriously at BU. Unlike other schools, the BUPD are actual cops, not just campus cops. What I love about them is that if ever there is a threat on campus, every student in the school receives emergency alerts by text and email right away, keeping us informed and out of any possible situations that they can.

Greek Life

You're either in it, or you're not. It's as simple as that. Greek Life is something that you have to actively pursue, but it is highly understated when compared to everything else of importance at BU.

Clubs and Activities

The student organizations at BU are some of the most devoted and friendly groups I've ever seen. They're constantly in motion, whether it be in practicing their passions or trying to organize events to share them with the rest of the university. You can't graduate from BU without having been a part of some sort of club activity!

Great for these types of students

BU is great for students on a worldly and/or international mindset. The network of support set up here is designed to benefit those who want to make an impact on the world as a whole, however you might want to do that, and are motivated to do so.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are so many traditions on campus that it's impossible to list them all. Every week, there's something different, from HOLI festivals to jazz Thursdays.

Bang for the buck

It's ridiculously expensive here, but a study just came out saying that BU graduates were the seventh most desired in the world, so I'm going to say that I'm willing to pay.

What to do for fun

The events calendar has daily updates on what the university offers as extra events and workshops, but every week there are innumerable student groups creating events and shows for the BU community. If that isn't enough, Boston is brimming with life whether its down at Newbury, the House of Blues, or at the North End.

Food and Dining

BU hosts mainly local cuisine, and makes a great effort to target all possible dietary needs from gluten free to Halal.

Dorm Life

Each dorm here has a very specific personality that it exudes. Warren is for social butterflies, Towers is for quiet studiers, and West is where all the athletes congregate. Each is special in its own way, and there are so many options.

Academic Rigor

There's a lot of reading involved for most of the classes here, but the topics make it worth it. Many of the professors here are also published, so you'll more than likely end up reading his/her work as a reference!

Tips for prospective students

Talk to people. Generally speaking, everyone is friendly here and eager to share meaningful experiences/stories. Don't be afraid to take classes outside of your academic norm, there are so many courses offered that it would be a waste not to take advantage of everything BU has to offer and explore your interests, no matter how vast they may be!

In three sentences

BU is one of the most culturally diverse environments in the North east. Although the campus is large, everything you could ever want from the university and the city is reasonably close-by. The opportunities through networking and student organizations are infinite.

Sarah from Bedford, MA

Just like any other urban campus, you'll be fine if you use common sense and are aware of your surroundings.

Greek Life

Greek life is apparent but not overly abundant. Lots of parties are hosted by fraternities but there's no huge pressure to join Greek life.

Clubs and Activities

There are tons of clubs for everything from culture to broomball.

Great for these types of students

BU is great for hardworking, social students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

At the on-campus pub (21+) there are 50 different beers and if you drink each one over the course of your time at BU, you get knighted.

Bang for the buck

Though BU is pretty pricey, it's well-worth the investment.

What to do for fun

There are always events going on in the student union or around campus. Hockey games are tons of fun. On weekends, people may travel to Allston for parties and such.

Food and Dining

The three dining halls are way better than other schools I've eaten at. The new dining hall at 100 Bay State is phenomenal. There's also plenty of great restaurants and such around the area, or just a T ride away.

Dorm Life

Freshman dorms are great because of the floor dynamic. It's a different relationship you gain by living with people.

Academic Rigor

Classes are hard, particularly in the sciences and engineering, but it's worth it. It may be challenging but it's worth it for all the knowledge you gain.

Tips for prospective students

Take classes you're interested in!

In three sentences

Boston University is a great urban, large school with a close community. It's great to know that although there are thousands of people at your school, you'll still always see people you know walking down the street. The coursework is challenging but definitely rewarding.

Grace from Boston, MA

The BU alert system is quick to text and email us when something happens. I don't ever not feel safe on campus, students are always around as well as security.

Clubs and Activities

So much to do...from quidditch to board and games club! Honestly it is not hard to find people on campus who are into the same things you are.

Great for these types of students

Honestly, great for any type of student!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Marathon Monday is tons of fun, classes are cancelled and students line up to go cheer on the Boston Marathon runners!

Bang for the buck

BU is very expensive, but you are getting a good education. College is very expensive in general. If you're looking for a hard degree, the money is worth it, but if you are going for a degree you can get anywhere then it is not worth it. BU does give out money though generously.

What to do for fun

You have the entire city! There is so much to do to Boston, as well as tons of other schools to meet people. There are also tons of concerts if you're into music.

Food and Dining

Lots of different food and eatable, can get a little too weird sometimes and not always sanitary. But the staff is easy to contact and they will fix any problem.

Dorm Life

Very open dorms, easy to meet people and very clean. Space is typical for freshmen, but space gets bigger once you are a senior.

Academic Rigor

Very hard to get an A, but not impossible. Professors push you to do your best.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you get sleep! Try to plan to do you homework whenever you have a break, that way you can relax and get a good night's sleep. You'll be much more attentive through the day!

In three sentences

Boston University is a large university. It is set in the city but has a campus feel. It is also extremely diverse, you will never go without friends.

John from Boston, MA

If you're looking for it it's there but it's not the focal point of campus.

Clubs and Activities

Anything and everything you'd want. From a nationally ranked Quidditch team to a Cigar Aficionados Society.

Great for these types of students

Socialites. Urbanites. People looking to meet new types of people. Explorers.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's a pervasive rumor that the 5th floor of Mugar library is where things may get a little...frisky.

Bang for the buck

Fantastic school, but absurdly expensive. Can't justify anything more than 3 stars. Get a scholarship.

What to do for fun

There's so much. There will always be an abundance of free on campus events ran by student organizations, like concerts at BU Central. The entire city of Boston is at your fingerprints and there is always a party scene to be found if you're into that.

Food and Dining

Fantastic food relative to most campuses. West campus dining hall is where it's at.

Academic Rigor

If you're doing anything science though that goes up to about a 4.5

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you live in West or Warren for your freshman year. In terms of physical living space, they're the least ideal dorms on campus, but this is where all the freshman are and where you're going to make your friends that you'll keep for the rest of college. You can have a crappy room and be around all freshman or a slightly nicer room and be lonely.

In three sentences

I'd give BU an overall 8 out of 10. That would definitely be at least a 9 if it wasn't so expensive. What it does offer is great academics, a fantastic city feel and a diverse student body where you're bound to make plenty of friends.

Constance from Tampa, FL

Most of campus is out in the open and on a busy road, so it's pretty safe.

Greek Life

Greek life is minor in the grand scheme of things, but a major part of west campus.

Clubs and Activities

Lots of activities and clubs one can be apart of.

Great for these types of students

Great for people looking for a diverse experience and willing to meet people from all over the world.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Hockey games and the esplanade.

Bang for the buck

Be ready to fork over all of your money. Extremely expensive to go here and live in Boston in general. Sometimes I question if it's worth it with all of my student loans.

What to do for fun

Explore Boston!

Food and Dining

As much as you'll complain when you're here, compared to most other colleges BU has a fantastic dining hall in west campus and on bay state.

Dorm Life

West campus is the best!

Academic Rigor

Very challenging. There are certainly classes that you can find that are very easy, but most classes there's a lot of grade deflation present.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely live in west campus!

In three sentences

BU is a great school full of opportunities. Boston is a fantastic city to live in during your college years. The only negative I feel is that it is really difficult to get an A, especially in the science department.

Shannay-Nay from the Bronx

02/10/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Maybe going down to Fenway Park?

Tips for prospective students

I made it into the school and I'll give a bit about my background. I have a 5.07 weighted GPA (4.00 unweighted), I'm the band Vice President, Marching Band Music Captain, my local youth orchestra's principal trumpet, and am extremely involved in my academic and music passions. I think that gets you put over the edge, because I was offered $35,000/year with grants and scholarships just from BU. Get really involved in your hobby!

In three sentences

The energy is extremely positive here! Always something to see and people always seem on the move! Right in the heart of Boston.

Melissa from El Paso, TX

01/10/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Despite being in a large city, the campus is actually quite safe. The BU police department constantly sends out messages warning students of any assaults in the perimeter, so as a student, the BUPD makes us very aware of the surroundings. The most dangerous aspect of the campus is the fact that it is located on Commonwealth Ave. which is an extremely busy street, but not a huge problem if you look both ways before you cross the street.

Clubs and Activities

Before the school year starts, BU holds an event called SPLASH on Nickerson field. It is basically where clubs, including frats and sororities, set up booths and you can sign up to be on their emailing list to get notifications about meetings etc. You can also learn more about the club and get the meet friendly current members and you can usually end up with tons of free swag. It is a great way to see the kinds of clubs that the university provides and ask questions about them.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

A popular place for BU students to hang out on is the BU Beach which is just a strip of land near Marsh Chapel and the esplanade. It is a very nice area to just relax and is very beautiful to look at as the seasons change. There is also a new student center that is a great place to get free homework and essay help and it is conveniently located on top of a new dining hall, Marciano Commons, that provide top notch dishes.

What to do for fun

There is plenty of things to do for fun, especially since BU is a large city. There is always something going on. And BU's tuition also includes free admission into things like the Museum of Fine Arts. BU's hockey arena, Agganis Arena, besides holding frequent hockey games, is also an entertainment venue for Boston so there is always lots of musical acts that come perform. Another great thing to do for fun is to go see plays, the College of Fine Arts offers free admission to anyone with a BU I.D. and their performances are always impeccable.

Food and Dining

The food at BU is great. When friends at other universities talk about their dining halls, I realize the BU students have better quality food where there is always a wide array of food selections, fresh and healthy produce, and the food is prepared right in front of us.

Dorm Life

I live in one of the large mainly freshmen dorms at West Campus. I live on an all girls floor and it is actually quite nice. It was peaceful and the bathrooms were always well kept.

Tips for prospective students

Boston University is after a well rounded student; high school grades test scores are not the only thing that matter. They are really interested in the type of person you are and the chance to show them is in a really well written essay.

In three sentences

Boston University provides a great learning environment, where the professors are passionate about what they teach and are concerned with expanding their students knowledge. BU is also is an amazing location with the many resources provided by the Commonwealth of Boston to enrich our learning experience. The school also provides an excellent variety of clubs to join and classes to take that are very interesting and better the college experience.

Jasmine from Eau Claire, WI

01/10/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

7 out of 7 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

When living on West campus, there have been a couple robberies, but they have increased security. Just try not and flaunt any money or smart phones. Also if you're going to ride a bike on campus, never go without a helmet. Really.

Greek Life

In both frats and sororities there are a lot of different groups, with different focuses. It is a bit unfortunate but because of a regional law, the sororities do not get their own house to share as there are only a certain number of girls who can live together.

Bang for the buck

The money you pay is evident in the classroom, all my professors have been fantastic and the class sizes are relatively small for non-lecture courses. The housing, although, could be improved if you live in the dorms and the buildings could use more amenities like floor kitchens, etc.

What to do for fun

There's a lot of different options for what to do in your free time. For example if you like sports, BU hockey games are a must-do. Being encompassed by the city of Boston also gives a lot of near by options for students (and not just the parties in Allston), like midnight movies at Coolidge, shopping on Newbury St. and tons of concert venues.

Food and Dining

The food BU provides is diverse and provides many options for different diets such as vegan or gluten free. The best dining hall by far though is the new building on Bay State, with two floors dedicated to feeding students.

Dorm Life

Depending on the floor you live on, dorm life can be very social and provide instant friends. Be sure to put in the effort to put yourself out there if you want to be best friends with your neighbors.

Academic Rigor

The homework is of moderate amount, and I was able to do well enough even working 20-25 hours a week off campus. Although, there may not be large amounts of homework there is a greater emphasis on the quality of the work. You will get the grade you deserve.

Tips for prospective students

Really focus on your application essay and be sure to write something unique and memorable. Also, if this is your top choice consider applying early decision, just keep in mind that if your accepted you must attend.

In three sentences

Boston University is an urban campus that provides practical education in a plethora of fields. The campus layout is easy to navigate and provides access to a central T line that makes it easy to go anywhere in Boston. While the student body is eclectic and diversified, this provides opportunity to discover your own niche.

Dea from Shelby, MT

Fairly safe, but you do live in a city. Dorms have almost annoying security measures but it keeps you feeling safe. Just don't be stupid, have common sense.

Greek Life

Greek life is not a major part of the university, but it is becoming increasingly important. Frats are where most freshman party. Great way to make friends, but sororities don't have houses so be prepared for that.

Clubs and Activities

BU is bursting at the seams with clubs. Seriously, if you can't find your club here you can easily make one. I highly recommend joining at least one club freshman year. It makes it much easier to make friends and have fun. Warning: There are so many clubs that it is overwhelming. Don't be afraid to join something new, but DO NOT join 100000 new clubs. You will end up not doing any of them and have a flooded inbox.

Great for these types of students

Active, go-getters,diverse, ready for something new, ready to be challenged

Bang for the buck

BU is an up and coming university. Its finally receiving credit for how academically rigorous it truly is. Dorms and dining halls are top notch and we have state of the art facilities. However, it is still very expensive. If you can afford it though you will reap the benefits.

What to do for fun

BU is incredibly diverse so it depends on your interests! We have a ton of student organizations, sports events, comedy and musical performances on campus. The city is full of these types of things as well and more, like great shopping!

Food and Dining

Food at BU is great. The new dining hall is incredibly nice. Food is fresh and served to you. Dessert will blow your mind. Late night options are always available as well.

Dorm Life

Dorm life depends on which dorm you are placed in. Warren Towers and West Campus are most popular with freshman. Warren Towers are great for social butterflies who want to be close to everything and have a dining hall in their dorm. West Campus is best if attending CGS or a prospective student athlete. Rich Hall is recently renovated. Avoid Danielson because its so far away. Shelton Hall is great if you want your own bathroom and privacy. Also it is right outside of the brand new dining hall, a block from the book store and the T-stop and a few blocks from Fenway. Check out the Brownstones for a homey feel. Some have kitchens!

Academic Rigor

BU is a very academically challenging school. Be prepared to learn a lot and be pushed very hard! Your good work in high school will be average work here. You need to work very hard to get good grades but it is possible.

In three sentences

BU is a highly underrated school. It is academically challenging, has brand new facilities and something for every student. Opportunities are here for those savvy enough to take them.

Mike from North Canton, OH

I haven't joined any clubs at this point. I am planning to join this next semester.

Great for these types of students

Boston University would be a great place to attend for any student wishing to experience it all! They offer something for everyone here.

Bang for the buck

Boston University is on the higher end of the scale. It is well worth every dollar spent. Everything offered at B.U. is top of the line. The education I will receive from B.U. is more than worth the money.

What to do for fun

Where do I begin??? Boston University offers activities for everyone. Anything form sporting events to concerts. There is always something to do .

Food and Dining

The food and dining at Boston University is far better than I ever expected. The dining halls have all nationalities presented. I prefer eating at the dining halls over going to a restaurant.

Dorm Life

I am currently at the Warren Towers dorm on Commonwealth Ave. I have completely enjoyed my stay here. It's centrally located for all of my classes and is right in front of the T- stop. I am able to experience the entire city from this location.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor at Boston University is just the right fit. I am an Engineering major and feel that I have learned so much already. The professors are amazing.

Tips for prospective students

I would let prospective students know to get their applications in early. I would also suggest that they should take all of the tours and invites that they offer before you start. This will help you to get to know the amazing things offered here at B.U.

In three sentences

Boston University is an amazing college to attend. I have gained a broader intellect from attending here. I would suggest Boston University to anyone!

Katherine from Westerly, RI

01/01/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Bang for the buck

This depends. The school is very expensive, and with the financial need and merit base, it is hard to get money from them. But on the other hand it may be worth it with BU's beautiful campus and great academic.

Gina from Newton, MA

Boston is your back yard, there is so much to do! Allston is right around the corner, which offers tons of options for dining.

Food and Dining

Food is fabulous here. With 3 state of the art dining halls that offer a huge variety of foods, you'll never get sick of the food!

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great here! Each dorm and residency has a different feel to it, but everything about it makes it so adaptable and homey.

Academic Rigor

Boston University is notorious for its grade deflation and difficulty in the science subjects. But it's not hard to do well, you just have to stay focused and get to know your professors very well and do things their way. Attend lecture and DEFINITELY go to office hours.

Tips for prospective students

Boston University has a myriad of opportunities and options in terms of what field of study you wish to pursue. Prepared to be challenged if you're considering pursuing the pre-med track at this university, grade deflation will definitely get you.

In three sentences

Boston University has been a rollar coaster for me. With rigorous academics and challenging departments, this school will test your limits and is quite frustrating in terms of the horrific grade deflation that it is well known for. However, you'll learn what it means to work hard and get what you deserve, and living in the heart of Boston doesn't make it so bad.

NDK

12/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

Explore Boston! Sports fan? Fenway stadium is just a few minutes off campus and TD garden is a few T stops away. Hit up Newbury Street on a bustling Saturday and try some of the great restaurants or shop with friends all day. BU has hundreds of student clubs and activities and there's always an appealing event happening on campus every week.

Food and Dining

Dining hall food is great for the first month or so but it quickly becomes less appealing once students become accustomed to everything that's offered. The school is getting a lot better at serving a larger variety of vegetarian/vegan/gluten free foods however.

Dorm Life

Some buildings are astoundingly nice (student villages I and II) and resemble four star hotels. Others are depressingly unpleasant.

Academic Rigor

The science programs are hard. Period. Expect to study hard and often without complaining. The year I took General Chemistry (CH101/102), the individual averages on the three midterms and final exam ranged from 30-60%. Nearly 800 students were enrolled in CH102, and 30% dropped the class by the end of the semester.

Tips for prospective students

Try to visit the campus prior to committing to the school. BU's urban campus doesn't foster the typical college experience that many students expect.

In three sentences

After exploring three entirely different disciplines at BU over the past four years, I can confidently attest that BU is a great school comprised of an enormous variety of attractive programs. Recently ranked 7th in the nation for graduate employability (and 17th in the world!), BU really prepares its students to be successful both financially and academically.

Quinn from Burbank, CA

12/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

It's scary living in such a city environment sometimes, but if you keep your wits and common sense about you, you'll be fine. We have call boxes and a 24-hour security escort service for students anywhere on campus, as well as a shuttle that runs from 12 AM to 6 AM during 24-hour study period to get students across campus when studying late into the night.

Greek Life

I'm not involved, but my friends who are love it. You can be as involved or as little as you want to be.

Clubs and Activities

There are clubs for EVERYTHING. We have a Quidditch team that competed in the World Cup recently! We have Greek life, sports, and clubs for everything.

Great for these types of students

Independent, City-loving, adventurous, outgoing.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's a 'seal' in the middle of campus, and once you've been matriculated (initiated into BU Student life) you can't step on it, otherwise you supposedly won't graduate in 4 years!

Bang for the buck

The Communications and Management schools are renowned and known at least nation- wide for excellence. Although it can cost an arm and a leg to pay for it!

What to do for fun

Hello- we live in the city. Go to the North End, a Red Sox game, explore Quincy Market. If there's nothing going on at BU, you can head over to Harvard, Northeastern, or Boston College to hit up a party there.

Food and Dining

The food in the city is great- but you can't eat there all the time. The dorm food is decent at best, although we have student service like no other. Check out @BUDiningService on Twitter- they're great at helping out students.

Dorm Life

Freshman dorms are small and crowded- but good for making friends! Upper-classman dorms are brand new and either apartment-style or suite style. We have a 26-story brand new building that's really nice, but wicked expensive.

Academic Rigor

Depends on your major. Gen eds aren't too difficult, but some math courses can get very difficult, especially with very smart professors with a language barrier.

Tips for prospective students

Visit during winter to make sure you can handle the cold. Join clubs- it's not difficult to make friends that way. Also, there are tons of jobs on campus, but take advantage of the city! Explore and find a job there.

In three sentences

A great and recognized school sandwiched right in the middle of Harvard and the city of Boston. Good for students who enjoy the city life and enjoy being independent. Not great for students who want a 'typical' college experience.

Caitlin from Allston, MA

12/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Boston University Police keep us up to date with security information. In the case of any potential or actual threat, we are notified immediately by text message, phone call, and email. BUPD is thorough and works very hard to keep us safe. I, for one, never feel uncomfortable in the area as long as I am vigilant.

Greek Life

Seems lively, though as a grad student, I don't partake...

Clubs and Activities

There are many clubs for undergrads and grad students alike and there are constantly flyers for information about joining or taking part in events on and off campus.

Great for these types of students

Hard workers and those who don't mind the cold or public transit

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I spend all of my time on the medical campus...

Bang for the buck

BU is pricey, but as long as you are willing to take your standard of living down a notch (aka realizing that you no longer have unlimited pockets without mom and dad's help) or are willing to work part-time, it's easy to stay afloat.

What to do for fun

Central and Harvard Squares in Cambridge are only a bus ride away. Fenway Park is right down the street. There are a ton of things to do during the day time and Allston (where many students live off-campus) has a great night life scene.

Food and Dining

I have not participated in the dining plan, but the student union features many different fast-food type restaurants (like Manchu Wok, a deli, a salad place, burger spot, starbucks, etc) where the student points can be used--it makes the student union a fun place to hang out or study with friends!

Dorm Life

From what I hear, the dorms on the central campus are really nice and they seem to be very convenient. Housing options are limited for graduate students though.

Academic Rigor

I attended Columbia University for my undergraduate education. As a graduate student at BU, I feel like the classes, examinations, and work load are not as high, though I can't speak for the undergraduate curriculum.

Tips for prospective students

The campus is not actually in downtown Boston... it feels a bit more suburban. If you are from a small town and are worried that it might be too big city for you, I would encourage you to check it out in person. My undergraduate years in New York City made me a firm believer that you should not only love the school you attend, but also the place you will be living for four (or possibly more years). Make sure you find somewhere to attend school where both of those are true and it will make a big difference!

In three sentences

Boston University utilizes a direct approach to graduate study. The faculty of my program promote professionalism and a thorough knowledge of the field. The professors are great and I feel like I will enter the workforce at the top of my field.

Emily

There's always student-run events go on, as well as parties. There's places to hang out and concerts to see.

Food and Dining

There is a new dining hall with fantastic food. There's also Lobster night! The school really tries to offer healthy options which actually do taste good. Again, it's situated in Boston, so you're sure to find good food.

Dorm Life

Your dorm life can vary greatly depending as to where you live in. The food also varies depending as to which dining hall you eat at. However, nothing is terrible.

Academic Rigor

It isn't easy. It's hard to get an A, but it's possible.

Tips for prospective students

Apply early to meet, even if you're not applying for early decision to get merit-based scholarships.

In three sentences

It's great in that it really does care for the community (community service is big). It's a huge school, but you still manage to maintain contact with people that you meet.

Emma from Waban, MA

10/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

When students are aware of themselves and use the resources, like the blue light system and the escort system, there is no reason students should not be safe walking around at night. In all of the large dormitories there are security guards at all times.

Greek Life

Greek life is growing, but is still under 20% of the BU population, so it is common not to be involved and there are plenty of other ways to get involved.

Clubs and Activities

Every kind of club and activity imaginable, and if it's not here, you can start one yourself!

Great for these types of students

ALL!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have high-rise dormitories with both apartment style living as well as suite style living that are beautiful inside and a great place to live.

Bang for the buck

BU is very expensive, however there are so many resources available to students at all times which puts both the students and their families at ease.

What to do for fun

There are so many fun things to do in Boston, as well as events happening on campus all the time.

Food and Dining

Lots of great options for everyone, and easily accessible food for students with allergies and intolerance.

Dorm Life

Dorms are well taken care of, have good security, and offer many styles for different preferences in living styles.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor at BU completely depends on the courses taken and the major.

Tips for prospective students

1. Be yourself; there is a place for you, even if you have to search for it. 2. Put effort into the things you care about, and worry about the necessities later. 3. Take care of yourself and listen to your intuition.

In three sentences

Boston University is a school with opportunities for every kind of student. It is important for students to find their own way and create a lifestyle for themselves that works well for them. BU offers an inclusive atmosphere with faculty and students that want to help each other out.

Student from the Caribbean

10/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Being in the city, one must be street smart and not go in dark alleys at night alone, but BU police is pretty reliable and there are spots all over campus with an emergency phone. If you have a far walk from campus or if you are alone, BU offers an escort service so that you don't have to walk alone.

Greek Life

There are Sororities and fraternities, but sororities don't have houses because it is an old MA law, that no more than x (i think 10, but not sure) number of girls can live together in a house because it is then considered to be a brothel.

Clubs and Activities

Anything you can imagine probably exists, if not, you can create it.

Great for these types of students

It is great for all types of students, there are parties for students who are into that, but some of the parties are in the library and quiet for those who prefer that. There is something for everyone here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Everyone enjoys going to Marathon Monday. If you are not running you cheer everyone on and have fun.

Bang for the buck

It is ridiculously expensive to study here, but they keep everything really nice. However, it is sometimes annoying to have to wait for an old dorm to get renovated because they are working on a dinning hall first.

What to do for fun

There are lots of clubs for anything you can imagine and they organize activities all the time. And you can always create a new one. But my favorite thing about BU is that you can just go anywhere in the city for fun.

Food and Dining

We have 3 big dinning halls that can be a little overwhelming, but because of that, they usually have something for everyone. I used to complain that it isn't like home, but after comparing it to other school's dinning halls, BU's are great.

Dorm Life

Dorms are regular college dorms. It is a great way to meet people and make new friends.

Academic Rigor

I am an art major and all of our professors are important artists renown in their field. Professors in other fields usually don't curve.

Tips for prospective students

Come prepared to walk, it is a big campus and you may have to go back and forth a lot depending on your classes. Be open and you will make friends. If you have any problems with the university, all you need to do is call or show up at the office that can help and they will. Even if you don't know who can help you, someone will be able to tell you where to go. Come prepared for a Cold winter.

In three sentences

One of the best things about BU is that it is right next to the heart of Boston, but it is still a campus, although a city campus. It is a big school with a lot of international students, which makes learning here a more rich experience. However, it is ridiculously expensive and COLD!

C. from Evergreen Park, IL

09/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

BU offers a free shuttle service that runs through the night and weekends, and there's also a campus-wide alert system. Furthermore, if you need to walk home alone late, you can call the escort service.

Great for these types of students

People that want to try a lot of different things will find a home here somewhere. People who are motivated in high school can skip a lot of the CAS general education requirements via AP or SAT subject tests. Don't expect to know everyone -- if you need that type of place, look for a smaller school.

What to do for fun

Groups! BU has a lot of student organizations ranging from boardgames club to musical theater to kendo and everywhere in between. Also, BU is not far from the shops on Newbury Street, Copley Square, and Kenmore Square, so city excursions are doable.

Food and Dining

BU's dining is awesome. The new dining hall offers a ton of different stations, from a grill to a saute to a gluten-free area. And the desserts are to die for, especially the cookies.

Dorm Life

BU's housing is hit-or-miss. Warren Towers is a cramped place to be, but if you like having a social life and knowing lots of people, it's a good place. The building I live in has bigger dorms, private bathrooms, and is much quieter. Try to live in places like Shelton, Myles Standish, or Danielsen if you don't mind a walk and want more space.

Academic Rigor

Taking something like Chinese is obviously going to be rigorous, but my other classes aren't quite as demanding. Sure, they'll expect you to know what they've taught, but homework's usually posted well in advance.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to keep up with all of your schoolwork. BU is getting more and more rigorous as time goes by. Try to also get some extracurriculars in; if you can stand out in those, the more the better.

In three sentences

This is a big place, and there are benefits and drawbacks due to that. BU offers so many different types of classes; the College of Arts and Sciences alone could fill up a four-year schedule with no problem. The education seems to be pretty good as well.

Olivia from Cumberland, RI

The food could not get better. Countless options for everyone, including allergy, vegan, and religious concious selections, and a lot of dining plan options to fit your needs.

Dorm Life

The dorms are wonderful when you are an upperclassmen and get to live in the lavish new hotel-like buildings, and are okay as underclassmen. Typical doubles, triples, and quads.

Academic Rigor

Classes are detailed and occasionally difficult but every professor I have ever had was passionate and enthuiastic about the class they were teaching, which is alway interesting and helpful.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to realize your financial aid situation before commiting to the school, as unfortunate BU does not have a lot of aid to go around.

In three sentences

BU is an extremely vast and diverse school that will allow you to thrive in countless ways. There are literally hundreds of clubs and groups and other opportunities that provide a great environment for meeting the people that will become your best friends and for growing as a student. The classes are just as exciting and interesting as the rest of the campus, and there is always a place for everyone.

Boey from Staten Island, NY

08/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Club Activities hanging out with friends.

Food and Dining

Good variety at the George Sherman Union. West dining hall is the best. Still have yet to try the new dining hall, but I think it would be as good as the West Dining Hall, since it is maintained by the same company

Dorm Life

West Campus is by far the best for freshmen and it makes it even better that all 3 buildings were recently renovated. The dining hall there is also one of the best. Only downside is that it is far from the main campus.

Academic Rigor

It depends on the classes you take and the degree of difficulty you can handle. Those in the science classes always complain about the difficulty, but there are still many that do extremely well in them.

Tips for prospective students

Find friends that you can study with, because with the immense variety of classes and things you can do, having someone when you are confused comes in handy

In three sentences

It is a big campus, close to the city with a multitude of opportunities, people, and event, if you are open to them.

Marco from Sparta, NJ

08/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campuses all have there safety incidence but during the whole year I can only recall about two serous safety incidents. Considering we are in a metropolis, I would say the safety is top notch for the surrounding environment.

Greek Life

There is a decent greek life at BU, nothing spectacular and they don't have housing supplied by the school.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for everyone at BU, weather its a fencer, bee keeper, zen Buddhist, or future neurosurgeon.

Great for these types of students

People who always like to meet someone new, more fasted paced, more refined tastes, people who love New England.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are many Boston events such as the Marathon and Regatta.

Bang for the buck

I happen to think most college is overpriced so that is why Im giving it three stars. Its about 56k a year but I couldn't think of a better place to be.

Katherine from Lynnfield, MA

BU has their own police department which is very visible on campus. They also have a police escort service, when you have a late class and need someone to escort you back to your dorm.

Greek Life

The school supported Greek life is within the dorms on campus. There are private houses off campus that are not part of Boston University.

Clubs and Activities

You name it they have it. I am into music, accapella and theater groups. However, there are so many to mention. SPLASH, in September, is where they all come together.

Great for these types of students

Anyone that is willing to work to achieve their goals and have fun at the same time. It is not a school for students that are just looking to party. However, there are a lot of parties going on every night.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

SPLASH is a large event for incoming freshman where they shower you with free stuff and try and draft you into every club imaginable including quiddich. Marsh Chapel is in the center of the University, where Martin Luther King was a regular speaker. There is a large monument to him out front.

Bang for the buck

The chances of getting a great job when you graduate are very high. They also have a 93% retention rate for incoming freshman. They also have very famous alumni in every field.

What to do for fun

It's Boston, with the greatest sports teams nearby, also great theater. BU has its own Terriers hockey team and US champion girls lacrosse and they own several theaters such as the Huntington. The is also the Agganis center, which sponsors several large events. There is always something going on at BU.

Food and Dining

The best food and selection, especially for vegetarians. There are multiple campus restaurants, also a points plan where you can eat anywhere in the Kenmore square area. Students from all over the world attend BU, and the food has to satisfy everyone. They also have a large food court, which has everything you can imagine, you just have to compete with the Tourists. I like Starbucks and Jambajuice.

Dorm Life

The dorms are beautiful. Some of old brownstones, and one of the upper class dorms has 27 floors with a phenomenal view of the city that you would pay thousands in rent if you lived in Boston after school.

Academic Rigor

Acting students have classes and work long hours. The University takes grades very seriously.

Tips for prospective students

It is not an easy school to get admitted to, you need high grades, and a passion for what you want to do. If you have a 3.0 or better GPA don't let anyone tell you it is a reach.

In three sentences

It is one of the best acting schools in the country. It is in the heart of Boston, which is a beautiful city. They have great food, especially for vegetarians.

Daniel from Staten Island, NY

07/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

12 out of 12 people found this review useful.
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Clubs and Activities

This school has a very developed student activities center that helps clubs and organizations plan events throughout the year by providing funding and advice. This has allowed many of our different organizations of all different interests to spur up. Furthermore, it has also given them the opportunity to host very large events that brings in students from all over the world.

Great for these types of students

This university is great for students who are outgoing and independent. The school will not hand-hold the students through having a fun life or having a good education. Incoming students must be willing to look for new opportunities on their own and work hard to achieve what the grades that they want.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Whenever something big happens, such as the death of Osama Bin Laden, there tends to be a loud celebration across campus - this has happened with other events like protesting for the LGBT.

Bang for the buck

Boston University is one of those few schools who focus primarily on educating their students and providing for their student life. Many other schools, even elite schools, have very easy curriculum that do not challenge their students but that will not happen here for most colleges. Despite that, I do not believe students should attend this school unless they are paying a net amount of $20,000 or less per year after scholarships and grants. The current $60,000 cost of attendance is a complete rip-off and students would be better off attending other schools.

What to do for fun

Despite not having a central campus, Boston University has a lot for its students. They have really focused on student life by providing a fitness center, a student activities center, performance center, and many others. There is just simply too much to list. However, I have to repeat, students must go out and look for these opportunities - they cannot just sit in their dormitory and hope for events to pop up. Anytime a student is bored, they can easily look on their Facebook, contact some friends, look at the BU Events page, or Boston events page - they will easily find something fun and exciting to do.

Food and Dining

There are many different food options at Boston University ranging from student dining halls to retail dining. Most recently, Boston University has opened a new dining hall on its east campus with many different types of food catering for almost every student's tastes. There is even a completely separate place serving Kosher food to those who are interested. Many of the dining halls also have late night options for those who are up late - some of which stay open until 2AM. Eventually, the dining hall foods may get repetitive but there are many restaurants, small and large chains, near campus for students to visit.

Dorm Life

Boston University has many different dormitories for their students but they are very expensive. Experiences here can vary depending where students wish to stay may it be an apartment, student dormitory, or the luxurious high-rise student village. However, there is plenty to do in every place especially with the Resident Assistants being required to plan monthly events. These events are optional so students may have to look out for opportunities on their own and be willing to try new stuff. Parties are also pretty widespread - ranging from small house parties to huge parties at sororities and fraternities.

Academic Rigor

Boston University is definitely one of the more difficult schools in the nation. There is obvious grade deflation here that can be demoralizing to some people especially if they are comparing GPAs to students from other colleges. It depends on the school though. For the School of Management, you should be prepared to do a lot of work and complete one of the hardest classes, Core, where you will have to do create your own product using skills in finance, marketing, operations management, and information systems.

Tips for prospective students

Do not attend this school if you are not getting a large scholarship or having wealthy parents. You should calculate your expenses before submitting your deposit to attend this school as I see many students transferring back to community college because they can no longer afford it later on. Prospective students should also be very open to new ideas as Boston University is not a traditional college experience. It does not have the school pride feeling or college campus structure but there is plenty to do if students are willing to step outside their boundaries and do something new. Boston University will not carry your hand through anything while you are there.

In three sentences

Boston University is an elite university that is constantly improving. It is a very expensive college but has a lot of resources for its students. Students who wish to attend should be somewhat independent and not afraid to take full advantage of the school's resources as well as the resources in the city of Boston.

Joanna from Tenafly, NJ

07/31/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

0 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

While the campus is so integrated into the city of Boston, there is the feeling of safety as you walk from building to building, street to street. BU has public safety and if you ever need to reach out to them, you can call the number on the back of your terrier card!

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs and activities!! I was amazed by the fact that there are over 500 clubs and there are always different sorts of activities going on.

Great for these types of students

Open minded and Adventurous!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The beach, which isn't actually a beach, is a great place to hangout and study outside facing the Charles River!

What to do for fun

Go to down town Boston and hang out!

Food and Dining

DELICIOUS! By far the best college food i've ever tasted.

Dorm Life

Very social! I'm buying the value pak for bedding and getting the microfridge, very convenient.

Academic Rigor

Advice bequeathed onto me says study hard, BU is very studious.

Tips for prospective students

BU is very diverse and will be the right choice for anyone who's open minded and ready to endeavor into a big, spiritual school environment. With so many people at BU and in Boston in general, you will need to learn how to communicate as it will be necessary and it will be an essential part of how you grow as a person.

In three sentences

A chance to explore and experience new things is an every-day opportunity at BU, from going to all the events advocated on campus to discovering a new part of a building. The big environment is energetic and full of motivation; the spread out campus is refreshing and provides a glimpse of the incredible city of Boston. The school spirit is in the air: from walking along Commonwealth Avenue in a BU shirt to cheering at our hockey games, BU is the whole package.

Laxmi from Foster City, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

0 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Innovative, independent, adventurous, curious, clever.

What to do for fun

Because of it's location in one of America's most historically significant cities, students at BU are never bored; there's an entire past to discover just by walking around the city.

Tips for prospective students

1. Fill out the appropriate financial aid forms. 2. Visit campus 3. Sign up for an early orientation session.

In three sentences

Boston University is an environment that encourages exploration. From it's location in the heart of Boston to the large amount of funding available for undergraduate research, BU constantly pushes it's students to question and discover the world around them. Immersing yourself in this kind of ambiance during the prime of your youth allows for a personal journey of self-discovery.

Kiera from Royersford, PA

07/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

The city of Boston is obviously always offering things to do, whether it be a trip to Quincy Market, a walk around the Common, or shopping at the Prudential Center, but BU offers a lot to do, too. Every weekend BU Central (in the basement of the GSU) has some sort of entertainment, and they're always highly publicized. Sporting events are a good time, especially the hockey games, and Fenway is only a short walk off campus for Sox games.

Food and Dining

Food at BU is MUCH better than other colleges I visited. Obviously some dining halls were better than others, but the dining hall on West campus was fantastic and I could almost always find something I legitimately wanted to eat. Next year a new dining hall is opening on East campus that should rival (if not beat) West's. BU has great food at the GSU, too. Definitely not the horror stories of some dining halls at other schools.

Dorm Life

During my freshman year, I lived in a dorm mostly full of upperclassmen. It made the transition to school exceptionally difficult because a lot of my floormates already had friends and rarely left their suites. My roommate was from Hong Kong, and we had too little in common to be friends. I'd say my dorm life was definitely different from the norm, but I also think it's very hit-or-miss at BU. Some dorms have wonderful reviews and everyone got along; others, like mine, were very antisocial. Every school is going to have floors and halls that don't get along and those that do, but I feel as though I got an exceptionally short end of the stick last year. However, I'm much more content with my housing assignment for next year and can't wait to move in.

Academic Rigor

BU is very academically rigorous. I was actually shocked by how much harder my classes were than they had been in high school. A's aren't easy to come by but are possible, if you put in the time and effort, go to professors' office hours, and don't wait until the last minute. I find BU classes to be very difficult, but still maintain a high GPA.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students should definitely look forward to coming to school here, but should keep in mind that nowhere is perfect. As a freshman living in a mostly-upperclassmen dorm, it was much harder than I expected to make friends, but I did meet some amazing people and absolutely cannot wait to get back for my sophomore year. Also, BU is notorious for being extremely academically rigorous - and it really is. Prospective students should keep in mind that easy A's in high school do not equal easy A's in college, but that with patience and work, high grades are still attainable. The hardest transition is learning to balance free time and still get enough sleep and work done.

In three sentences

BU is an incredible school with an outstanding location and amazing opportunities for its students. Sometimes the academics seem nearly impossible, but it only pushes me to work harder. BU is the perfect place to spend four years - it's academically enriching as well as fun, and being in the city provides a whole new sense of independence.

Alex

07/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

0 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Boston University has its own police force that trains with Boston Police. I have rarely heard of incidents at BU, and I have never felt threatened anywhere on campus. The BU campus is a very safe city environment.

Clubs and Activities

BU has an activity for everyone. There are athletic clubs, computer clubs, music groups, and much more. In addition, it is very easy to start a new student group with the SAO.

What to do for fun

A campus in the middle of a city has many benefits. I have never been at a loss for things to do. shopping at Newbury Street, going out to nearby restaurants, walking along the Charles River, and Visiting the North End are all great activities off campus; while BU central, where you can find pool tables, comedy shows, and music performances is a great place to for on campus entertainment.

Food and Dining

The Boston University dining service is excellent. Having experienced the dining options at other universities, I can say that Boston University handles the dining experience very well.

Dorm Life

The Boston University housing system is not exceptional, nor is it sub par. One positive aspect of dorm life is the variety of housing options available to BU students. Large dorms and small dorms are available in distinct communities around campus.

Academic Rigor

Courses at Boston University are difficult. But they are also very rewarding. If you take classes seriously and take interest in your studies, the distinction between studying hours and leisure time blur.

Tips for prospective students

Boston University is a large school, but do not let that intimidate you. There are plenty of ways to Find your niche within the BU community. I found that joining student organizations was a great way to find a place for myself at BU.

In three sentences

I could not have chosen a better university. Boston University has many opportunities for undergraduates. From research opportunities to student activities there are so many options available to students to help make the most of the college experience.

Cassidy from Japan

Boston itself feels pretty safe, despite a shooting that happened early in the year. But it is a college town so it's likely that people around you are going to be kids like you.

Greek Life

Not that popular at school. The school is so big it's easy to find those that aren't into greek life.

Great for these types of students

Want to go to a college in a city. A city, specifically, that is not too crowded and busy but still has a lot of fun activities around. Those who want a pretty good education.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a nearby aquarium, the ocean (more like a dock than a sandy beach, but nonetheless the ocean), and so much more. Literally could find different things to do and places to visit every single week. Never get bored. No joke.

All dining foods are great. There are special nights in each dormitory where chefs come in and compete. The GSU (student union center) also has good food. There is a new dining place opening fall 2012 with a whole new variety. There are literally tons of good restaurants in nearby Boston that anyone could access although the food may be a little overpriced.

Dorm Life

Pretty social especially in Warren Towers. A great place to meet people and make the right connections. People are usually there to help you. The bathrooms may get dirty and they are pretty small, but eventually many kids just get used to them and stop complaining. It's a real college experience. Friday nights till Sundays, the dorms get pretty loud and fun. RAs are generally amicable. If you don't like your roomate/room/RA/floormates it's easy to just swap rooms.

Academic Rigor

It's college. Some kids are laid back, some kids really work hard, it's up to you. The school in general seems demanding but professors tend to know the reality and cut some slack off. Not all professors do though.

Tips for prospective students

Incoming students should be aware of these facts about Boston University: Not everyone will bump into a Harvard/MIT student, but there are so many different student organizations that will help with networking; School of Management is covered with Asians; the freshmen dormitories are crowded and social.

In three sentences

The school has a general rich atmosphere as many other reviewers might have pointed out. Boston, however, is such a great city that students are open for all kinds of opportunity everywhere. For international students, the school is pretty diverse.

Lauren from Grapevine, TX

Adequately safe. There's always a number to call for help. However, note that BU has been in the news quite often for incidences involving irresponsible teachers and students.

Greek Life

Greek life isn't very popular. There's a few small sororities and fraternities here and there.

Clubs and Activities

There's hundred of organizations and clubs to join. However, most aren't very good at communicating to students on an individual basis so be sure to check your emails.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students who want to focus mainly on research or writing for big newspapers or magazines.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Hockey games are the most popular event and involve most school traditions. Don't walk across the emblem in Marsh Plaza or it's said that you won't graduate.

Bang for the buck

This school's tuition is ridiculously overpriced and continuing to increase each year. Honestly it isn't worth it, unless you plan on living in Boston the rest of your life and dedicating your career to research.

What to do for fun

Sight seeing, visiting the harbor, or going on boat tours, touring historical sights and shopping on Newbury are definitely the most popular. Red Sox games are also a great past time. Halloween in Salem is exciting, full of history and allows you to ride on a ferry.

Food and Dining

Food and dining are pretty great. There's always opportunities for free food somewhere too. Vegetarian food in the dining halls is also pretty good. Get the best deals on groceries at Shaw's on Boylston or use dining points at Buick Street Market for everyday grocery and toiletry items.

Dorm Life

Rooms are pretty well kept. Communal bathrooms aren't very clean and BU doesn't keep track of illegal drug use, even when other students complain, so be prepared for the occasional marijuana smell. Bring lots of storage containers and rent a microfridge. They will be your best friend.

Academic Rigor

Sciences are extremely rigorous. Don't take Chem 109/110 unless you plan on going into engineering. Definitely don't take it as a pre medical student. Psychology and philosophy classes are fascinating and easy GPA boosters if you do your work.

Tips for prospective students

Keep a list of department phone numbers ready to go on your desk for easy access. Get used to walking. Talk to your RA's for friendly advice. Decide on how much warm clothing you're going to bring, and then double it. Use the FitRec! It's free for freshmen and it's wonderful for de-stressing and staying in shape to keep that Freshman 15 out of sight!

In three sentences

This is a great school for liberal students interested in research and writing. Personalized attention from teachers is limited and finding help when you really need it is difficult. Here and there someone is willing to help. There are quite a few professors who really love what they do and this makes the class all the worthwhile. Recommendation: Deb Kelemen's Developmental Psychology.

Sarah from Boston, MA

07/11/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is usually very safe, and you will be safe as long as you are smart about where you're going and who you're with. Don't walk alone on the Esplanade at night, don't take out your iPhone or expensive camera where someone may run to grab it from you, and just be aware of your surroundings. Although the campus is usually safe, remember that it is in the middle of a city. We do have our own police force (the BU Police).

Greek Life

There is an active Greek Life for both men and women, but it is not as popular here as it is in Texas and other southern states. Joining is not necessary in order to have a good time.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs and activities to choose from. There are student groups for volunteering, religion, singing, academics, exploring, photography, different cultures, and lots more.

Great for these types of students

Since BU is so big, literally any type of student will be found here. Outgoing and introverted, math/science brained and English/history brained, every religion, language, country. If you experiment with clubs, classes, and other groups, you will find your niche.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a rock which sororities and fraternities spray paint all the time. It has a new coat of paint on it almost every day. The BU Beach is not a beach - it is a nice patch of grass where students hang out on nice days. No matter who the BU ice hockey team is playing against, the BU students sing chants that insult BC, our arch-rival. Sometimes you will see somebody walking a real Boston Terrier through campus.

Bang for the buck

BU is very expensive, but if you can afford it, you will have a great experience academically, socially, and even spiritually for some people. It is in a great location with many distinguished and interesting faculty who will help you.

What to do for fun

Spend time with friends, relax by the Charles River, play sports or work out at the Fit Rec, there is a theater nearby for movies, shopping streets, cafes and bookstores, and the whole city of Boston to explore.

Food and Dining

BU is opening a new student center, complete with a large dining hall, in east campus this fall, which will be exciting for those students living in that area of the school. All the dining halls have plenty of seating and many food choices, ranging from salad and vegetarian options to hamburgers, hot dogs, and meals with both meat and vegetables. There is also a food court style area with plenty of little shops to choose from (salad, sandwiches, Italian food, Japanese food, etc.), and there are plenty of restaurants near and throughout campus.

Dorm Life

There are many styles of dorms students can choose from, and there is one that will suit every kind of person. There are the large dorms (Warren and West) that are best for freshmen and those who want to have good dining halls right in the building, Towers also has a dining hall but more sophomores and other upperclassmen live there. There are also the dorm-style brownstones, which are like townhouses and are beautiful and very quiet. There are apartment-style accommodations which are good for those who want to save on a meal plan, and the residences in west campus are good for those who want to have easier access to the FitRec (the fitness and recreation center). Your experience is what you make of it - when you're a freshman take advantage of the fact that everyone wants to make new friends and keep your door open, and get to know the people on your floor. Even when you're past freshman year, there's nothing wrong with getting to know your neighbors. Go to the floor and house events, and just be a nice person.

Academic Rigor

Be prepared to work harder here than in high school. Most of the classes have to have most of the students get a B- and below, so you will really have to work to get an A. However, this really isn't a challenge if you just apply yourself and not get carried away with your newfound freedom away at college.

Tips for prospective students

Make an effort to get to know people, but be yourself at the same time. Work hard academically, and take advantage of the many clubs and student organizations BU has to offer. Don't go to the library during midterms and finals because they are jam-packed and you will not find a seat. Also take advantage of the wonderful city of Boston. There are plenty of internship opportunities, volunteer opportunities, neighborhoods to explore, and things to discover.

In three sentences

BU is a large school with many interesting and useful classes, accomplished professors who are passionate about what they teach, and many student groups and organizations one can get involved in. There is always someone to go to for help, friends to meet, and places to go. Boston is a gorgeous city, and it is one of the best things about BU.

Anonymous

Boston is a typically safe city, however, there are the few occasional times that students are in danger. It's very rare though!

Greek Life

There are many sororities and fraternities on campus and they do lots of volunteer work and have fun.

Clubs and Activities

There are hundreds of clubs to choose from! There are volunteer/service clubs such as The Supply Education Group or China Care Fund, there are musical groups such as Mustard Seed Christian A Cappella Group and BosTones, and there is even a Quidditch team.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students who love the city, but who also love a calm environment. Although BU is in Boston, the city is a lot more mellow than New York.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Esplanade is the pathway that goes along the Charles River behind Bay State Rd. It's a beautiful place to take a walk, but be sure not to walk there alone at night.

Bang for the buck

BU is a great school, but it is one of the most expensive schools in the nation. The experiences you have at BU will be unforgettable, but financial matters should definitely be taken into account.

What to do for fun

There are exciting hockey games to watch, concerts to attend at Agganis Arena, rock climbing at FitRec, and much more!

Food and Dining

BU is known for the great dining hall meals and options! As surprising as it sounds, the food is actually delicious and BU students boast about the endless amount of food we have.

Dorm Life

It's a great way to meet new people and become closer to those you would have never thought you would be friends with. The RA's are very nice and are always willing to help out!

Academic Rigor

BU is more difficult than you would expect. The professors challenge you and work should not be taken lightly! However, I have definitely learned a lot.

Tips for prospective students

BU should be at the top of your list! Don't just look at ratings, but really think about what a school can do for you. BU has a lot of school pride, the community is tight-knit and the campus is right in the middle of one of the greatest cities in the world! What more can you ask for?

In three sentences

Boston University is a very underrated school. The students are committed, passionate, driven, creative, and intelligent. It's the best school to be able to grow and be nurtured.

Heather-Marie from Holliston, MA

06/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We are literally the safest area of Boston. Not only do we have our own Massachusetts State Police-trained Boston University Police, but MIT Police, Boston Police, and Brookline Police departments all patrol our campus. I am a 5'1 tall girl, and I can honestly say that in my three years as a student, I have never felt unsafe on or around campus.

Greek Life

Percentage-wise, only a small portion of students participate in Greek Life; the last estimate placed the number at about 11%. However, BU is enormous with approximately 16,000 students, so that is still a significant number of people who share that common interest. At the end of the day, Greek Life is as much or as little a part of your life as you'd like it to be.

Clubs and Activities

There are over 500 clubs and official groups at BU, and if you can't find one that you want to join in that list, it's super easy to create your own. Just find students with a similar interest, find a faculty member to support you, and you'll be all set.

Go to hockey games! Don't worry if you don't know the chants; trust me, you'll learn them soon enough. And to clear up any confusion: yes, they are chanting BC Sucks!, even though we're not playing BC. They're our rivals, it makes sense. Just go with it.

Bang for the buck

Do everything. Go abroad, join clubs, take advantage of career services, cheer at hockey games, go to your professors' office hours. BU offers so, so much to students. Take advantage of it!

What to do for fun

BU is in the heart of Boston. Students often venture into the city to hang out on the Boston Common, eat in the North End, roam Fanueil Hall, get crepes and see an independent film at Coolidge Corner, or just take in the sights downtown. There are many things to do on-campus as well, such as BU Central, a hang out spot where comedians and musicians often perform at no cost to students.

Food and Dining

Dining services are very good at BU. They pay special attention to healthfulness and ingredient-quality, while still providing delicious desserts at every meal. The cookies and decorate-your-own-cupcake stations are especially popular.

Dorm Life

BU offers a wide variety of living options for students, and guarantees housing for all four years. Options include large dorm-style (like Warren Towers, the one of the largest non-military dorms in the country); suite style; and apartment-style housing in high rises and brown stone buildings.

Academic Rigor

BU enlists an all-star faculty, including Professor Stephen Prothero, who writes a blog on religion for CNN and has made appearances on The Colbert Report; Professor Andrew Bacevich, and Robert Pinsky, former Poet Laureate Consultant. The vast majority of professors have doctorates and are leaders in their respective fields. At some schools, you would expect this to mean that they care little for their students, and more for their research. However, at BU, professors genuinely care about their students, and place much emphasis on their pedagogical roles as teachers and mentors to tomorrow's leaders.

Tips for prospective students

Start saving up! Save money before you come, because not only is BU expensive, but the cost of living in Boston is high, too. If you're eligible for Work-Study, try to get a job in the faculty and staff offices that deal with your major. Not only will you have a cushy job that pays, but you will also be able to network in your field.

In three sentences

BU is a great place to grow and learn. They offer the best facilities, the best faculty, and some of the most amazing opportunities for expanding your horizon. However, this comes at an enormous financial cost, upwards of $56,000 per year.

Harjaap from Plantation, FL

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

Seeing what I saw at orientation really pleased me. The cafeteria was incredible. Every time of food imaginable was there.

Dorm Life

I'll be living in Warren Towers. It's a phenomenal experience, especially as a freshman because of the amount of new people you meet and connections you make.

Academic Rigor

It is tough. I am a Human Physiology major and I have selected my classes. I am in for a tough year!

Tips for prospective students

Be open to new things and try to look for what your perfect fit may be before deciding on your college.

In three sentences

Boston University is the perfect balance between city life and campus life. It really brings about an experience like no other college I've visited. From the diversity to the culture to the student body and academics, Boston University is perfect.

Kelly from Denver, CO

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Greek Life

They have greek life clubs but they do not live together

Clubs and Activities

Hundres of Clubs and Activites; go out there and do something.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Tanning on the beach which is a small grassy area.

Food and Dining

There is a dinning hall in every dorm. Other than that you are in one of the biggest cities in the country go out and try some local cuisine.

Academic Rigor

BU is one of the biggest private universities in the country. They expect the best. Work hard and it will pay off.

Tips for prospective students

If you want to attend BU apply early. I have no idea how I got in but I did it. Of the + 43,000 people that applied I was one of 3,9000 that got in. Apply early, and have an idea on what you want to do; don't apply as undecided.

In three sentences

Hard to get into. In a beautiful city, on the Charles River. A school full of pride for it's students.

In the middle of Stu-Vi 2 (a dorm) there is the MOST amazing, cute, shopping center for groceries and school supplies, and there is a Dunkin'''''''' attached to it. You can also go to the top floors of these buildings to study with the most breathtaking view of the city. Mugar Library top floors are literally pin drop quiet. You get free admission into the Museum of Fine Arts! Collegefest at Fenway is great, you get lots of free stuff, just get there early. SPLASH is the school event where the clubs are around to promote themselves. You also get a lot of free stuff. Comm Ave Fair (Comm=Commonwealth) again... lots of free stuff.

Bang for the buck

College should be less than $60,000 a year. If you''''''''re rich or have great financial aid then its a good bang for buck.

What to do for fun

Walk along the Charles River, go meet people at the surrounding colleges, museums, shopping at Newbury St, chill at Boston Commons, clubs, parties, sailing, gym, tan, laundry, movies, and so much more.

Food and Dining

West Campus food is amazing, and in the incoming year a new two story dining hall will open! Everyone is excited for that especially since the school gave us a preview of what will be served there. Yum! If you don''''''''t want on campus food, there''''''''s Noodle St, Dunkin'''''''', McD''''''''s, Legal Seafood, Cheesecake Factory, 7-11, Panera, Starbucks, Zinga, and that hamburger place on Comm Ave.

Dorm Life

Everyone is up for fun. Not many people are Debbie Downers. It''''''''s great dorming with such friendly people.

Academic Rigor

The engineering programs are incredibly challenging but also extremely rewarding. The professors love their students and are among the best on campus.

Tips for prospective students

-Go to office hours early on (make it a habit). -Establishing a nice routine can help you make BU your new home. -Network, network, network. You can go so far in your dreams if you just speak up on what you want to do. There is someone who will be willing to help you out.

In three sentences

BU is a fabulous place for those who like being in an upbeat, richly diverse, urban environment. It is especially academically challenging for those in engineering and science. I love this place.

I was unfortunately unimpressed with Boston University overall. Their huge price tag would lead one to believe that they would at least care about their students and be well organized, but this isn't the case in my experience. The treatment I've received is comparable to an overwhelmed, underpaid community college, even though I've found my questions and request more than reasonable.

Sally from Miami, FL

06/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Very safe. No homeless people on campus. Although, you'll see a lot of drunks on the weekends and after big games and Marathon Monday. Cops hide on the side of Warren on the weekends to catch drunks. Very entertaining. Cops are pretty nice. However, the rape culture got a good dosage of media attention. As a result, a new office for crises is underway.

Greek Life

I'm in a sorority now, and I love it. Greek life has either a negative or positive vibe on campus depending on which organization you're in and your own views on it. Frats have a party every weekend.

If I didn't have an external scholarship, I won't be at BU. The FAO is very nice in email and on the phone, but when it actually comes to aid, their funds are pretty limited. Most grad programs don't even have any funding for students. I know a lot of students with loans: subsidized, unsubsidized, Perkins, big bank, the whole deal.

What to do for fun

Too much. Frats if you like that. Clubs. Concerts at the House of Blues. Museums. Ice skating at the Frog Pond. Shopping is huge, esp with Copley and Newbury Street. Exploring other nitnacks in Boston. Visiting other college campuses or local towns.

Food and Dining

Dining hall food is ok. There's lobster night, and they attempt to have a variety of food. The new dining hall is opening up this year, so I hope it's going to be a blast.

Dorm Life

Depends on which dorm. Warren and West are full of freshman and are loud on the weekends. Other dorms are mixed with all types of students. RAs are pretty nice, but sometimes too strict. Alcohol and weed are always confiscated, but that's expected. Brownstones are beautiful, but be careful. Some have kitchens, while some don't even have a set of laundry machines. StuVi is pretty hard to get into unless you're pulled in. Warren and West are the only dorms with dining halls. Rooms are pretty big.

Academic Rigor

Depends on your major. Introductory STEM courses are weed out, so be prepared to work a lot harder in your freshman year in these classes compared to other classes. Grad courses are available at undergrad tuition if you have time for them in your schedule.

Tips for prospective students

Be open to changing your major. I suggest coming in with a declared major of interest, but know that it might change. Get used to the bus. Have a good pair of sneakers. Be prepared for all sorts of weather.

In three sentences

BU is in the heart of downtown Boston, giving it that vibrant, always awake feeling. There's so much potential to do anything within the city and within the school. Most importantly, everything is either a step outside or a bus stop away.

Dee from CA

06/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There have been several incidents on campus this last year. While I don't want to trivialize them, such incidents do happen on every campus across the country. Also, with the realization that BU is actually in a city, I would still consider BU to be a safe place. I feel comfortable with walking across campus at night. However if you don't, BU has a security escort service. You simply have to call the phone number (listed on the back of every student ID) and two people will be sent to your location and will walk with you to your destination.

Greek Life

Although only a minority of students are involved in Greek life, you can find Greeks anywhere on campus. The great thing about Greek life at BU is there is no stereotype that could fit a typical Greek. Greek life here consists of a diverse group of people who want to be involved in organizations that provide for life-long friendships and great college experiences, including philanthropy.

Clubs and Activities

Splash is an event right before classes start where every club or group on campus can have a table out on Nickerson field. It feels overwhelming to see so many different groups but it also means that you can try some really great new activities.

Great for these types of students

BU is a great fit for anyone. If anyone is looking to be on a campus with great diversity, this is really the place for you.

Bang for the buck

In some parts, BU feels like an enclosed campus, while in others it feels like it blends right into the city. BU's location gives it the best of both worlds.

What to do for fun

There is so much to do for fun at BU because it's in Boston. Ally you have to do is Google fun things to do in Boston to get a list of things to do. This could include: - Eating great food (Sunset Cantina, Maluken, Uno's, Bertucci's, India Quality, the North End, etc.), - Catching a game (BU, Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics) - Shopping (Newbury St., the Prudential Center, or Copley) - Historical sites (the Commons, Faneuil Hall, Trinity Church, etc.)

Food and Dining

The on-campus food at BU is great. I'm pretty sure the West Campus dining hall is nationally ranked. BU is opening a new food court/dining hall in the fall. The company that does the food for West Campus will be running the new dining hall. There are going to be so many different food options available, and I'm really excited to try it out!

Dorm Life

Freshman year I lived in one of the big dorms on campus typically reserved for freshman. While there's a certain amount of grossness associated with sharing a bathroom with 20 other people, there is no other experience that comes close to sharing a floor with 40-something people. You get to make a lot of new friends and memories. Sophomore year I lived in a brownstone on Bay State. I shared a bathroom with 4 other people and the building was a lot quieter than a large dorm. It was a lot nicer to have my 2nd year when I wasn't looking to make a lot of new friends. It also felt a lot cleaner.

Academic Rigor

Academic rigor at BU varies. At a general level, it is moderately challenging - not too easy but not too difficult. However, there are always certain classes that may be more difficult when compared to others, such as Neurobiology and Intro to Microeconomics. If you work hard,, you'll get the grade you deserve. However, if you are still having problems, you can always speak to the professor.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to try new things. BU has a lot to offer in terms of academics and extracurricular activities.

In three sentences

Although BU has had negative press this last semester, I would never dream of changing schools. The community at BU is inspiring and the people are amazing. I'm taking classes that I love and spend time with friends I know I'll have for the rest of my life.

An education at Boston University will open lots of academic and professional doors.

What to do for fun

I live off campus.

Food and Dining

I live off campus.

Dorm Life

I live off campus.

Academic Rigor

Boston University classes are top quality and rigorous. Expect to spend lots of time studying. Join a study group early.

Tips for prospective students

This is a large urban school. Currently sexual assault and robbery have increased. There are lots of academic programs and departments. You do not have to know what you want to major in to apply for admission.

In three sentences

1. Boston University's campuses are spread out in a large geographical area. 2. Boston University has world renown faculty. 3. Boston University has lots of academic programs.

Andrew from West Babylon, NY

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

For living in a city, the safety is great. There has been some incidents recently, so I won't put 5 stars but it's a great environment.

Clubs and Activities

There's so many things to choose from including a popular favorite broomball to the people watching club. If you want to find something to do at BU, there's a club that does it.

Great for these types of students

Great for people who want to learn and have fun at the same time. If you're looking for a great education and living in a vibrant city, BU is for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the seal at Marsh Chapel. Bad luck.

Bang for the buck

BU is a great academic institution, but it's far from cheap. Luckily I have another brother enrolled in college so I got a decent financial aid package. It's very hit or miss and many people don't get enough aid.

What to do for fun

There's always something going on from movies to hockey games or venturing into the city. At BU, you'll never be bored.

Food and Dining

The food is amazing at the dining halls and the selection and quality of the food is so much better than many other schools.

Dorm Life

The dorms are standard and small but most of them get the job done. The upper class dorms and apartments are amazing.

Academic Rigor

To go to BU, you must put in effort to achieve success and can't just skate by.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard every year in high school. Make sure you're involved in things , but you don't have to be in every club or organization. Try and get into the range for their SAT and ACT requirements. Take both APs and Honors courses. Lastly, put a TON of effort into the essays. They take time to read every one.

In three sentences

With every aspect considered, Boston University is a great school. It gives every student a great education and opportunities combined with a great city environment. The atmosphere and diversity is unbeatable.

Clara from Hartford, CT

05/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

Perhaps one of the most important things besides shelter is food, and dining at BU is wrought with inconvenience. The best bet is to get an unlimited plan; otherwise, as with the 14k plan (which is the default plan for all incoming freshman), you are limited to 14 meals a week, which comes out to be two meals a day. Then, you have your dining points, which is just cash on your ID card which you are limited to using at specified BU sponsored establishments. Should you be stuck with the 14k plan, most of your time will be spent counting your meals and watching grimly as your dining points gradually slip away due to the inflated prices of the designer establishments offered. Eating in the buffet style dining hall itself is something of an experience. There is no worse time to go eat than at noon or around six/seven at night. Avoid these times as much as possible since long lines extend your eating experience to inconvenience. The line length at certain stations is usually due to the popularity (or usually the normality) of the offered food; some stations with unusual foods are noticeably uninhabited. The university has somehow come to the conclusion that students who have just left their homes, some from many thousands of miles away, would appreciate gourmet style foods that they would otherwise have never been offered anywhere at home. This, however, is not the case and normalcy is sought; it'Â?Â?s not uncommon to see the sandwich station swamped, even at dinner time. That being said, BU likes to regard themselves as health conscious, giving the students smaller than average portions which only result in students returning for seconds and even thirds. With such a system, it is not difficult to gain the Freshman 15.

Dorm Life

Living in a dorm is not expected to be pleasant, but at BU, you have your choice. In BU'Â?Â?s West Campus dorm complex, don'Â?Â?t expect the rooms to be inviting, unless you find cramped, gloomy rooms with concrete walls that fail to block out all of those disturbing noises from the next door room to be pleasurable. Want to go to sleep early because you have a test the next day? Not unless you'Â?Â?re a champion sleeper who can ignore the screaming at two in the morning from the newly initiated marijuana smoker down the hall. Want to sleep in on the weekends? If the blaring music from Nickerson Field, drumline practice at 5am, and bright lights spotlighting your room don't bother you, West Campus is just the place for you. The only upside to West Campus is that it is a step above both Warren Towers and Danielson Hall. The former dorm could easily be mistaken for a meerkat burrow and the latter, unless you enjoy frat partying and the constant sound of police sirens, is hardly worth the walk to class. However, if you'Â?Â?ve survived your first year and have the funds to get yourself out of the large dorms, BU offers such housing opportunities as the Student Village, an expensive, on-campus apartment complex that taunts you in your deplorable situation in West Campus, or the exclusive brownstones with their not-so-exclusive themed housing. If you have the chance, get out of the dorms as quickly as possible.

Academic Rigor

Academically, Boston University is known for its high expectations and tough grading system. If youÃ¢Â?Â?re lucky, youÃ¢Â?Â?ll get an Â?Â?A-Â?Â?, even if you'Â?Â?ve put in the time and done AÂ?Â? work, and graduate with a 3.5 GPA (because what graduate school doesnÃ¢Â?Â?t accept B average students?). Punctuality is the key to a good grade at BU; there are penalties should you be even a few minutes late to class and absence is something akin to suicide. Sympathy is not given to those who are dreadfully ill. Also, participation is expected in every class. It doesn'Â?Â?t matter if you find the subject interesting or if you have any knowledge on the subject; saying anything will win you points, especially if the teacher can disprove your opinion (or lack of opinion). Above all, there are no breaks for late homework. When the professor gives you a deadline, you are expected to turn it in on that specified date, or say goodbye to that A and hello to a Â?Â?C-Â?Â?. If you suspect from this review that the teachers want you to fail, you'Â?Â?re on the right track. However, despite the grade inflation that could hamper all dreams of attending grad school, these expectations of punctuality and eternal striving are a spectacular way to teach students the meaning of responsibility, especially in a work environment.

BU Student

03/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

the school is located in a big city, which automatically poses threats;, however, i have never felt unsafe on campus. there are people on the streets at all times so you never feel alone. also, to get into the dorms you must walk past security, so you know that nobody will be in the dorm that doesn't belong there.

Greek Life

everybody that is a part of greek life really seems to enjoy it, however it is not something that is very popular on campus.

Clubs and Activities

there are so many clubs and activities here that everyone can find something to do.

Great for these types of students

bu is great for students looking for a school that is big and in a very active spot. students attending bu have to be motivated and willing to work hard because the school stresses independence.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

there is a crest in marsh plaza. rumor has it that if you walk over the crest you won't graduate in 4 years.

Bang for the buck

the school could be a bit cheaper, but there are so many scholarships that help students out. also, bu has a lot of career fairs and bu students are constantly being recruited so it probably pays off in the end.

What to do for fun

bu offers so many clubs, intramural sports, and other activities such as volunteering or greek life. also, bu has a great hockey team so the games are a lot of fun.

Food and Dining

the dining halls have so many options. sometimes there are better options that others. the desserts are always delicious and next year there will be a new dining hall that is 2 floors!

Dorm Life

the dorms actually aren't too bad for a college dorm. the dorms create a great place to meet people because there are so many people in one building and the people are coming from all different backgrounds. the bathrooms could be a little better, but that is the same for about every college.

Academic Rigor

bu has been voted one of the hardest grading schools on the east coast.

Tips for prospective students

work hard in high school and take as many ap tests as possible because bu accepts so many credits.

In three sentences

boston university is a fun university to attend and couldn't be located in a better location. there are so many options for classes, professors, and majors and the school even offers fun dance classes! although the price is a little high, there are many scholarships available.

D

01/09/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are so many things to do at BU.... we live in the middle of Boston!! Whether is is just taking a stroll down Comm Ave. or going to Newbury Street to do some shopping there's never a time in which you're bored!

Food and Dining

I'm pretty content with the food at BU. There are many options to choose from whether in the dining halls or at the GSU.

Dorm Life

I love living in Warren Towers. It houses about 1800 students (primarily freshman) and you get that true dorm living lifestyle!

Academic Rigor

I feel like I have been challenged tremendously at BU but in a good way! The professors expect a lot from you and that motivates me to perform my best.

Tips for prospective students

I would say take risks! Go out and explore Boston. Take everything in because you only go to college once!

In three sentences

Boston University is diverse, lively, and comforting. I've built a home away from home at BU. The students and faculty I met have made me feel at ease!

If you are thinking of being pre-med I would unfortunately recommend against going to BU...imagine a general chemistry course where exam averages range in the 40s! BU is #1 in the country for its grade deflation :( Just a couple of things to keep in mind. Also make sure you visit the campus. College visits are so important! Once you go visit a campus you'll know if it is the right fit for you.

Bang for the buck

This is a hard one... BU is extremely overpriced. While the school and city may be great, the price is a little RIDICULOUS. Make sure you know what you are getting yourself into and plan ahead for future changes in your parents economic status. Also, don't forget to add in the flights to go home and all of that while calculating the final cost. P.S: Tuition goes up between $1,500-3,000 per year.

Am enjoying being here

Boston is a great city!! That is the main reason why I chose to go to BU. Take time to explore the city and all the history and adventure it has to offer. Also, don't miss out on campus activities! There's clubs for everything you can possibly imagine and with all the variety of people it's hard not to find a group of friends perfect for you!

Am learning a lot

There is definitely a lot to learn! Being a pre-med student (biology major) it is never easy. Most professors try their hardest to help you in any way they can. If you are in College of Arts and Sciences and love the liberal arts aspect, I would recommend the divisional studies program more than Core. Personally, I have not met anyone who has actually enjoyed doing Core...

Victor from Watsonville, CA

Students who are studious and/or responsible would do great, as would those who are outgoing and those who enjoy having access to big cities.

Tips for prospective students

Please, don't get so wrapped in studying that you burn yourself out. That's likely to be your biggest problem at this university. Take the time to go out and enjoy Boston's sites and attractions. Also, go out and pursue the things like the Study Abroad, research, and internships.

Bang for the buck

Boston University is pricey, but you do get your money's worth. BU is a prestigious enough university that you get resources and opportunities, such as study abroads, exclusive internships, plentiful research opportunities, and alums everywhere. As for the price, with the financial aid I'm getting, BU works out being cheaper than attending a UC (a public university) would be in my native California.

Am enjoying being here

I personally have really liked the University and its classes very well. The professors are typically good teachers, do interesting research and are willing to share it with you, and are very accessible outside of class. While the integrated with the city campus is not traditional, it has grown on me and provides a lot of options for food, supplies, jobs, and entertainment. (And if its really not your thing, its far enough out in the suburbs to feel more like a [large] town than a bustling city). And being a ten minute subway or bike trip from a major world class city with tons of shopping, entertainment, parks, museums, and culture in general is a great resource for both relaxation AND academic research.

Am learning a lot

I am studying to be a Mechanical-Aerospace Engineer here at the College of Engineering. As such, I am mainly taking science, math and engineering (STEM) courses. That said, I am learning all of the required information for the major (duh.), but I am also learning quite a lot outside the major. Many of the professors are also researchers at the University, and they are perfectly willing to either tie in their current research into what the lecture currently is and have it further what we were learning, and are willing to talk to you more about it outside of class. I am also learning quite a bit about other random topics from non-required classes that I'm taking and from good friends who are in other majors.

Aaron from Hopkinton, MA

11/13/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

20 out of 22 people found this review useful.
1 person found it offensive.
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Great for these types of students

BU is particularly good for the motivated students who will take advantage of everything BU has too offer. While no one holds your hand, there extensive resources to help student be extremely successful. These include multiple advising departments, a writing center, a tutoring center, a career center, international programs department, and the list goes on and on and on.

Tips for prospective students

Applicants: - Develop a strong easy to read resume - Don't try to be SuperStudent like some schools want you to be. Emphasize how you aren't like any other student to ever apply to BU -Really want to go? Apply early decision to get the best housing -Want good merit aid? apply regular decision. schools see merit aid as way to convince non-convinced students to enroll Reason people say they don't want to go to BU: -There's no campus - Yes, at first glance BU seems like it doesn't have a campus. But it doesn't take long to realize that even though there's no fences and walls, Comm Ave (from Kenmore to Agganis Arena) is a place that is either BU or a business catering to BU. This confined space still has the exciting energy of most college campuses while also making the rest of Boston very accessible. -Its too big - At other big schools it might be easy to become just another student but BU offers plenty of small classes you can take right from the start. Even if you take a big lecture style class you still have small discussion sections (usually the best part of any course) and professors have tons of office hours so you can get as much help as you need to succeed. Socially, the diversity of BU makes it so instead of being another face in the crowd, each find a few great social scenes, organizations, or places that work best for you specifically. -Its too expensive - (see above) Advice for Accepted Students: Where to live freshman year? Even though a nice apartment or suite sound nice, nothing beats the ups and the downs of the freshman experience is the large dormitory style room. That's where you'll meet the most people and get the most out of freshman year. There's 2 main choices: West Campus or Warren Towers. There's a constant debate over which is better but here's my personal very biased opinion. West is the Best - its farther from classes in schools like CAS, SMG, SAR, and ENG but it has the best facilities. There's no argument that it has the best cafeteria on campus and FitRec and Agganis Area are right next store so preventing that Freshman15 isn't that hard. West campus surrounds the soccer field and has nice green space inhabited by the infamous BU bunnies. This makes adjusting to city life that much easier. The distance from class is easily overcome by the frequent and Free BU Bus, a bicycle, or a semester T Pass although most people enjoy the 10 minute walk which helps them wake up, get a little extra studying in, or decompress after a long day.

Bang for the buck

Okay so most parents might have a heart attack when they see how much BU costs which is ALOT. But here's some things to remind even the most frugal of the parental units out there: 1. You're getting a world class education. Who teaches our biochemistry class? Hans Kornberg, one of the guys who discovered half of the photosynthetic pathway (Krebs cycle) and was knighted by the Queen of England. Even if you don't get one of the many Fulbright Scholars, Pulitzer Prize winners, MacArthur Fellows, Nobel Prize winners, the former Poet Laureate who are professors at BU, chances are you're still learning from someone who is one of the best in his or her field. 2. LOTS OF MERIT AID (and lots of need based too) - The total price tag might be scary but so many people get a good amount of aid to make that number seem a lot more manageable 3. On Campus Jobs Are Everywhere - Need a job? Whether its work study or a regular job, a big university like BU needs lots of people to run it. The great part about on campus jobs? Many of them involve a lot of down time so you get can paid for doing homework. BU also connects students with people in the community who need some help around the office or home and are willing to pay for it. Want to get some experience in your field of study? Plenty of research and other positions offer compensation as well. (TIP? The Harvard Business School regularly needs students for surveys. Spend an hour in Cambridge and make $50!) 4. You pay a lot but you get a lot. Our gym (FitRec) is incredible and so are our cafeterias, labs, and other facilities. Cons- BU like most private universities really knows how to nickle and dime you on everything extra

Am enjoying being here

Go to any tour, info session, or accepted students day at BU and you'll hear the word diversity more times than you can count. Most students usually put it off as a marketing ploy and consider the other things the university has to offer. I did this too until I actually showed up and started my freshman year. Only now do I realize that they really underplayed the idea and its hard not sounding like a college brochure when you explain it. Its not just typical diversity in terms of ethnicity and nationality like most people take it for. Coming to BU I was immediately surrounded by peers who had a surreal mixture personalities, interests, backgrounds, and opinions. Its hard not to grow as a person in that atmosphere. This combined with the size of BU means that everyone can find someone like them or better yet someone who seems completely different. The diversity speal aside, lets talk more concretely about fun things to do. When you aren't studying for the next exam there's always something fun to do: 1. F*#&k em Up F*#&k em Up BC SUCKS - Whether you love hockey or have never seen an ice rink before in your life its hard not to catch hockey fever when the season comes around. The atmosphere inside Agganis Arena is so loud and electric we can't wait for Friday/Saturday nights to roll around. Oh yeah, our other sports team aren't bad either. 2. Did you see the Harry Potter Movie in IMAX before anyone else? Because we did at BU. BU organizes a ton of cool events from DJs to guest speakers (Rainn Wilson aka Dwight from the office is coming to campus soon). Best part? They're almost completely free (Harry Potter was a $5 well spent) 3. YOUR IN BOSTON - That means theres plenty of things to do and not all of them cost money. Nice day? Walk/run/picnic/chill on the Charles river, boston harbor, or Boston Commons. Hungry? The food at the dinning hall is 5 times better than any other school I've been to (Lobster Night FTW) but Boston has Quincy Market, The North End, China Town, and plenty of other awesome places to satisfy even the cheapest and pickiest of palates. Want to hear some awesome tunes? Most bands have concerts in Boston and a lot of them are at the House of Blues or Paradise Rock Club which are both located right near campus. 4. Boston and New England Sports are wickkked awesome and you can see Fenway from most dorms.

Am learning a lot

I've experienced that the premedical track at Boston University is definitely no walk in the park or even the Boston Commons. The first year of general chemistry is especially difficult compared to the experience some of my peers have had at other even more prestigious schools. That being said though, I get the impression that the challenge has prepared me more than my peer who I will ultimately be competing with for entrance to medical schools. In addition to plain academics, BU has had a TON of opportunities outside the classroom for me to learn from. From funding the writing seminar field trips to museums and theaters to making research accessible to undergraduates of any study to designing INCREDIBLE study abroad programs Boston University really does everything to make sure students get the most out of their undergrad academic experience. There has to be some disadvantage right? Well, like most big schools not every professor is as good as the next but that's nothing ratemyprofessor.com can't help you with.

Luis from Yonkers, NY

Great for the studious, Great for the socialites, not-so great for the party animals.

Tips for prospective students

Same tips as in any college, also, if you aren't used to the weather, bring things to be prepared for all kinds of weather, especially winter.

Bang for the buck

56,000$ tuition for resident students.... the staff is all-star no question, and facilities are pretty good as well, as well as the support given by the school to inform students, but the price is a high.

Am enjoying being here

Everyone is generally very nice, Boston is seemingly populated by very beautiful and attractive people if that's your kind of thing. There's also a lot of things to do.

Am learning a lot

I've easily learned more in my first week of college than I have all 4 years of high school, IB classes included.

Lesli from KS

08/23/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

There are a lot of people walking around in Northface and Uggs. But there's an equal amount of people in the population who don't. I honestly think BU has so much diversity on campus, you will find your niche without a problem. If you're willing to challenge yourself and to try branching out, then BU is definitely the school for you.

Tips for prospective students

If you hate bustling crowds, long winters, and public transportation, then BU is not for you. But BU is a great school overall- such a big school has a lot of resources and a lot of diversity. Also, don't get turned off by freshman orientation; it is hot and uncomfortable and not a whole lot of fun, but trust me, BU is! For freshmen, I'd recommend NOT relying on the T too much and exploring the city on foot for the first couple of months. You really do get a sense of where things are, and it's a great opportunity to burn off that delicious dining hall fare.

Bang for the buck

Although I love BU and I wouldn't want to go anywhere else, the worst part about the school is the price tag. Luckily for me, and for a lot of people, they are very generous with merit and need based scholarships. Expect to pay around a quarter of a million dollars for your degree without any scholarships.

Am enjoying being here

The campus has a great energy, and since it's so big, there really is something for everyone. There's a good Greek life if you're interested in that, and there are several different clubs in every area. Boston is one of the most wonderful places to be, and it's not a 30 minute T ride away - you are literally right there in the city. In the springtime, Boston is absolutely beautiful - just make sure you get a good coat for the winter.

Am learning a lot

Don't get me wrong, BU has some easy classes. But most of my classes have been challenging and interesting. If you really want to make it an easy 4 years, you probably could. To actually glean something from your college experience, however, I'd suggest taking some more difficult courses - you won't regret it.

Alina from Allston, MA

07/10/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Look around Commonwealth Ave, where BU stretches out from top to bottom, and you'll see a swarm of passionate, eagar, and motivated student body. Students are armed and ready to go, most likely with a cup of Starbucks in hand, and books in the other. The feeling I would describe would be In the zone, as students are ready to go face their classes, hand in their assignments, or take exams. There is a sense of preparedness when you walk down the streets of BU--you know that everyone has given their best, which makes competing with them or working with them such a treat. You will become motivated through the combined motivation of other students and facutly, if you are this type of student.

Tips for prospective students

Learn to be open to all different types of people. BU is a very diverse school, and there will probably be people dressing, talking, or acting in ways that are different than you. However, realize that you probably do have some things in common with them, or even a lot of new interesting new things to learn from them. Additionally, learn to take advantage of all of the resources BU provides. It is such a large school, which means they have made many ways available to recieve help. Classes, finances, health, and the like may all be hard to manage for an incoming student, but BU is able to help you with any struggles along the way you may be having!

Bang for the buck

BU is an expensive school. Is it worth it? Yes. It will pay off eventually, but in the short-term, it is rather expensive. BU is very decent with financial aid, and the adivsors are all super helpful. Housing is very expensive, as well as the meal plan, parking, etc. This is something all schools in Boston face, though, which is what you must realize. There are certain small things that bother me, like the unrealistic printing quota, the overpriced textbooks, etc. Learn to find ways around the system and you'll be fine. Also realize that BU is a business, and a very successful one.

Am enjoying being here

I am enjoying being here--so much to the point where I have stayed in Boston 2 summers and maybe plan on living here after college as well. There is everything here you could possibly need or want here, and you'll see its very easy to make your life this city.

Am learning a lot

The amount of knowledge that has managed to get stuck in my head is amazing. Yes, we may be forced to memorize a lot of facts, but what's most important is being able to retain essential concepts. I love the feeling of being able to convey a concept I've learned in class to an uneducated outsider. I feel that the courses I have taken will prepare me sufficiently for the job I will be doing every day after college.

I suggest that if you decide to apply, but do not know what major to study, apply to the College of Arts and Sciences under undecided. I find this to be the smarter choice than applying to the College of General Studies which makes it rather difficult to then switch into another school once you've chosen a major.

Bang for the buck

BU is rather expensive being one of the top most expensive colleges in America. However, their financial aid program is extremely strong and the amount of connections and learning that takes places is truly worth every penny spent.

Am enjoying being here

I truly enjoy being in the City of Boston. The school is right on the limits of what becomes City to Suburb and is just great. Although it is not the average College campus, BU's campus has an awesome feel by its combination of Campus life and regular city life.

Am learning a lot

Boston University has a great staff of professors and variety of studies for students to pursue their own as well as new interests. In my first year I have already expanded my understanding on several topics that have always fascinated me and have even expanded to a topic I never knew I loved.

Paige from Revere, MA

Great for students who have a strong high school background and live nearby (so you do not need to live on campus).

Tips for prospective students

Do as much preparing as you can in high school and do not take on more than you can chew freshman year.

Bang for the buck

Boston University is insanely expensive and most of the time it is unclear to where all the tuition dollars go.

Am enjoying being here

I think I would have enjoyed my freshman year more if I wasn't under so much pressure from needing to keep a certain GPA and being required to live on campus with an incompatible roommate.

Am learning a lot

The professors at Boston University really push students to learn as much as possible from the material at hand. However, sometimes focus on weeding out students and grade competition can cause one to lose sight of what is really important.

Samantha from Boston, MA

Rich students, or ones who literally suffer to get full-tuition scholarships like a certain female Jamaica Plain resident I know.

Tips for prospective students

Let this be a cautionary tale for those with tight budgets (or budgets at all...)- This is the only field I can really fill out- I just got accepted here as a transfer student, and I was nominated for a scholarship through my community college. Shortly after my acceptance, however, I received notice of my financial aid assistance. Out of the $50,000+ in tuition and fees, I was eligible to receive only $9,100, which includes the loans they offered me, which is a hole I am not planning on digging for myself. No- I did not receive my scholarship, and I was frankly not expecting to. A scholarship is a gift, a happy surprise. But still - the ONLY need-based aid they were willing to give me was my $2600 Pell Grant! Seriously? Let me give you my background- I am one of four children. We live in a *tiny* condo. Only *one* of my parents works full-time, and his pay schedule is at times unreliable. OK, we do have enough money to eat, be clothed, and have heating and electricity, but still! We don't go on exotic vacations. We do stay-cations in Boston. Or sometimes hop on a bus to NYC to visit my aunt and baby cousins. C'mon. I'm sorry, no matter how great of an academic/social/whatever experience other students have had, this is a big deal-breaker. I kind of hope this some mistake- someone forgot to add an extra zero, or they fell asleep at the calculator. But I am only too sure that I would be so wrong.

Chelsea from Rumford, ME

05/11/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

11 out of 11 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Those who like cities, like crowds, like seeing familiar faces but having the ability to disappear for a while if you want, hard working, decided on major, not decided on major since so many are offered and switching is pretty easy. Pretty much everyone except for those who only like small towns.

Tips for prospective students

Try to get good grades in high school so that you can get as much financial aid as possible, other than that just try your best, take the SAT's seriously, take the ACT's since a lot of people do better on them than on the SAT's, and just be ready for a great college experience. Everything you could want is possible at BU.

Bang for the buck

The only reason why I didn't give this 5 stars was because I know others who have to pay more than I do. BU gives AMAZING financial aid, I've only known one person who didn't get a near-full ride and that was because of his grades. If you have good grades in high school you will get so much merit aid it's ridiculous. Looking at how much I've learned compared to my high school friends who are at other schools now, I would pay $50,000 a year straight up because it's worth it.

Am enjoying being here

As soon as I visited BU on Accepted Students Day in Spring of 2010 I knew I wanted to go here! Ever since it's been perfect. I can absolutely see myself here for the completion of my undergraduate career. The only reason why I'm not really considering it for graduate school is because of the weather - coming from Maine, I'm already sick of the winters. I always say that BU is in its own corner of Boston; if we want to stay only around college peers all we have to do is stay on campus, but there's literally a 5 minute walk to Kenmore Square, 10 minutes to Fenway, and 20 minutes to Newbury St. It's amazing!

Am learning a lot

This year I've taken General and Quantitative Analytical Chemistry, Principles of Biology I, Principles of Biology II, Fourth Semester French, college writing, college research writing, and Introduction to Religion. I have learned more than I ever imagined I would in my first year. There have been times when one of my friends from Mass. College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences brought her chemistry exams over and I was astonished to see they were multiple choice and the questions were pretty much about high school chemistry topics! Then I realized just how much more I've learned at BU compared to other schools.

Zoraida from Hatillo, PR

03/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If you like the city, Boston is great. But also consider that Boston is a quiet city (at least by my standards), a lot of places close early, with a few exceptions. There are a lot of times when there is stuff to do, but sometimes there is nothing to do. BU is also good for people who like community service. And if you love hockey, that's BU's sport. Also if you like the cold, BU is the place for you, but if you don't, you can still get use to it. I come from a place of tropical weather, Puerto Rico, and sure it was hard at first to get use to the cold, but after a while it was fine.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved. BU begins the year with SPLASH, an exposition of all, or at least most, of their student groups. It is a bit of a messy exposition, since there is a lot of people there, but it's a great opportunity to sing up for things that may interest you. What allows me to enjoy BU is getting involved and meeting people. Also, if you don't know Boston, explore the city on your first few weeks there, getting to know it will be of great advantage for your upcoming years.

Bang for the buck

Yes. It is expensive. Still, BU does offer good financial aid if you really need it, and the expense is worth it. It's also not difficult to get a job on campus, most of the students I know have one. On the other hand, if you don't want a set job, the BU student website lists quick jobs which are short term commitment and help you win a little money.

Am enjoying being here

There are many academic and extracurricular opportunities for students inside campus and outside. Of the many universities in Boston, this one is the most central to the city and the T (the Boston subway/train) rides right through its middle and that is of great advantage when you want to move around.

Am learning a lot

BU classes are a lot of work and there is a high tendency for grade deflation, which is not so good. However, if you are willing to work hard and organize yourself, you will be just fine. Professor's quality as always vary depending on the class, but so far I find most of them of good quality. They are certainly willing to help if you need them to. Also there are great resources in the library. It's a challenging place, but challenge is the best way to learn.

Cassandra from Shaker Heights, OH

You've gotta be cool with a large student population, cold & yucky weather, and being so close to the city. Otherwise, I think BU would be great for anyone!

Tips for prospective students

Everyone should get rain boots, a winter coat, and snow boots. In my opinion, umbrellas are pretty useless because it gets pretty windy, but other people love having umbrellas.

Bang for the buck

It's not a secret that BU is expensive. It is. It is very, very expensive. You'll hear, We pay them so much money, why don't they [do this or that]? a lot. We don't get free Beanpot tickets, we don't get free T passes, and not all housing gets A/C. But, on the bright side, the education is good, we get pretty solid dining hall food, and we have the BU shuttle that takes us from the Charles River campus to the Medical campus!

Am enjoying being here

I love it at BU. I didn't think I'd like being in a city environment, but the fact that downtown is at a walkable distance is great. I do not feel like I am ever limited in activities. What's great about BU is that it'll be a party school if you want it to be and it won't be if you don't want it to be. Being a college city, Boston has a lot of parties. Otherwise, BU has a great number of extracurriculars and productions that are really fun! It is easy to make your own little niche here.

Am learning a lot

Thus far, I have been lucky enough to have chosen classes that I actually do enjoy. My experience is that professors really know their stuff. However, I have heard stories of friends' professors who are less great. Some professors are a bit berating. A geography professor has misnamed a couple of states and provinces. But overall, I feel like professors are fairly reasonable (besides some who are just angry people) and the content material is interesting. I have loved all of the classes I have taken! Being a person who does not like science at all, I have been comforted by the fact that the 100-level courses are taught by professors who understand that their 100-level students generally do not like science. They make things quite simplistic. It's great, though there are some faults. But what school won't have any faults?

Renee from NY

01/05/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

BU is great for every student! Obviously, everyone has their preferences and if BU doesn't fit one of your main requirements, I'm sure another school will. There really is no standard student at BU, there's so much diversity in everyone's personality that it's impossible for BU to have just one type of student!

Tips for prospective students

Know your school before you even apply! It really helps because you get to really know if the school is for you! Don't ever stop searching for scholarships! There's scholarships everywhere and they can definitely help. Take advantage of everything at the school! BU like many others have a ton of things to offer, but it's only worth it if you take advantage of it

Bang for the buck

Money is always a main topic no matter what school you attend, but when you see the benefits, you definitely get your money's worth.

Am enjoying being here

There's soooo much to do in the school and in Boston. Since I'm from a major city and I'm used to the urban life, I definitely wanted a school that had both the campus and city feel. Boston University is located right in the city of Boston, but it's away enough to still get the campus atmosphere.

Am learning a lot

With my classes in the College of General Studies and my French elective, I am definitely learning a lot of information. Without realizing, I begin to communicate and think with the concepts, ideas, and even french words I have already learned! (and it's only been one semester for me)

Elizabeth from Bakersfield, CA

12/30/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

7 out of 7 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who like a city atmosphere, students that are fashionable (a lot of students at BU make Commonwealth Ave. their own personal runway), students interested in music, hockey, theater, and a whole slew of other activities, students who want to be engineers, the next Donald Trump, performers, liberal arts majors, archaeologists (this one's really important because BU is literally Archaeology headquarters) and a large number of other professions you may have never even thought of!

Tips for prospective students

Even if this school is far from home, don't get discouraged, there are students from all over the world so finding someone who understands homesickness is super easy. Also, explore the city of Boston. Not only is BU an amazing school, it's located in an amazing city with lots to do. And finally, Boston is a huge college town so if you explore Boston enough, you can become friends with students from MIT, Harvard, and any of the other hundreds of universities and colleges located in Boston. When learning more about BU, definitely do the potential student stuff but also check out the signs around BU and see if there is an event that’s open to the public. If you do this, you can see some of the other things BU has to offer other than academics. And try not to be afraid to talk to the students around. As long as they don’t seem to be in a rush or don’t appear to be annoyed, a lot of people that attend BU are really nice and polite and probably wouldn’t mind giving you their perspective of the school. Overall, BU is a great place, but it’s really important to explore all aspects of it.

Bang for the buck

BU is extremely expensive and their financial aid is good but not great. But, for the level of education they offer, the large amounts of extracurricular activities and events they provide, free admission to the Musuem of Fine Arts (whose cost is $20 regularly) and some of the modern facilities it has (like FitRec one of Boston's best gyms), if you can put some extra effort into finding outside scholarships and loans, BU is totally and completely worth it!

Am enjoying being here

Boston University has a huge selection of clubs and extracurricular activities to join. These clubs and activities are usually open to everyone so even if you're an engineering major, you can still join BU on Broadway, a group that performs Broadway shows with a fully BU student cast. Also, BU has a great location in Boston; it’s close to the Museum of Fine Arts, Fenway Park and several small music venues that are usually open to eighteen and over audiences. Finally, BU always has some sort of entertainment occurring throughout the week for free or at a very low cost. Whether you want to attend a charity fashion show, a play, a Bo Burnham comedy act (that's right, he came to BU Central) or a lecture series about Bob Dylan, BU has it.

Am learning a lot

As a student in the College of General Studies I'm able to enjoy a great combination at Boston University. I get to knock out all of my General Education requirements my first two years and take an elective course in any of Boston University's other schools. The CGS professors are helpful and experts in their field. I learn about a variety of subjects from professors who care about your personal achievement. I also enjoyed the professor I had for my elective course. I took Archaeology 101 and had a paleoethnobotanist as a professor. Her specialty is ancient plant remains but she was extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of archaeology. My friends in other schools also rave about how amazing and knowledgeable their professors are. Of course you’re still going to run into that professor you can’t stand, but for the most part the professors are cool people who love what they do and love to share their knowledge.

Patricia from Rumford, ME

11/07/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Hard-workers who love the city. If you like being a small town with not many crowds and not a lot of people, don't go here. It's still a great school if you need one-on-one attention, though; the professors are very flexible with working with you. You need to be devoted and be a hard worker though, and NOT go out partying every night. I see kids going to party every single night, and they're basically paying $55,000 a year to get drunk. It's a shame.

Tips for prospective students

Work well during your senior year to get good financial aid! Also, if you haven't already try taking an advanced chem course your senior year - it'll help you out a lot during CH101! If you're thinking premed, don't be scared - there are many horror stories out there about people not following through because everything's too hard, but if you work you can do it!

Bang for the buck

Definitely an expensive school, but if you look poor enough on paper and do well in high school, you'll get great financial aid! This is a very rich school, so they have a lot of money to give away. Also, even though it's expensive I really think it's worth it - I love every minute here. The only thing that is definitely really over priced is the dorms; I live in Warren and it is definitely not worth around $2,000 a month.

Am enjoying being here

I absolutely love it here! BU has a great atmosphere - everybody is so friendly and the place is just fun! I also love how the campus is situated; it's smack dab in the city (right near Fenway, by the way), but if you don't leave the campus you'd never even know you were in Boston. BU is like its own little city, but you can take a ten-minute T ride and go anywhere you need to! It's just a great place to be at; so many of my friends hate where they are, but I'm loving it here!

Am learning a lot

I am definitely learning a lot here at BU, but I'm not gonna lie - the chemistry program is HARD! I'm in CH101 (gen chem 101), and even though it's considered an introductory course, it's very hard. You need to study often, and the course takes up a lot of your time with online homework and studying in general. I definitely have learned a lot in all of my classes during my first semester, and it is hard, but it will be so worth it to pass these classes.

Michelle from Miami, FL

10/26/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

9 out of 9 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

BU is great for students looking for a strong academic background who also want an opportunity to explore a great city and go to great social events sponsored by BU organizations. I've met all kinds of students here and I have yet to meet someone who isn't loving BU. If you love the northeast, don't mind winter, look forward to watching live hockey (awesome experience), and you want to go to a place where everyone likes where they are, you'll feel right at home.

Tips for prospective students

First, academic tips. Get to know your professor as soon as possible. If you are in a lecture setting, it is almost impossible, and sometimes intimidating to speak up in class, but the professors here at BU have great office hours and they make themselves accessible if you can't make it then. They are great and really helpful if you are having problems or just have general questions. Second, if you can learn/study in groups, start a study group. If not, there are awesome study lounges in Warren Towers, and the other main dorm buildings too, and Mugar library has a great atmosphere to learn. If its a nice day out, BU Beach is an awesome place to lay down and read. Tips for social aspects of college-life. First off, get to know the students on your floor as soon as possible. If you live in warren towers, which most freshmen choose to live (like me), most people here will be freshmen, and everyone is in the same boat as you. There are people there who have left home for the first time, people who are 10 minutes from home, international students, outgoing and shy people. Getting to know the kids who will be living amongst you for a whole year is a great way to start the year and it makes for a great atmosphere. Second, allow yourself to try new things. Try new clubs, join an intermural sport, talk to the person who sits next to you in class. Not only will you meet great new people, but you might also discover a new activity you love to do. Here at BU the most popular and the (personally) most fun have been Quidditch, Flag Football, I.M. soccer, Fencing club, and academic clubs.

Bang for the buck

I think I am getting my money's worth, and at the same time the financial aid is more than generous here, so I am getting a lot more bang than the buck I had to give.

Am enjoying being here

I am absolutely loving it here. My dorm is awesome, the people on the floor and I have bonded great, and the whole environment is welcoming. The city is so full of college students, and the BU campus has so much stuff to do and all the RAs, and all the other students involved in helping out freshmen are great people who are fun to get to know.

Am learning a lot

The vast array of courses offered here at Boston University are truly refreshing, and the professors are truly passionate about their courses. The emphasis placed by the professors and the really well structured classes are great. I find myself learning a lot and most of the time, effortlessly.

SJ from NY

10/26/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Its great here if you're looking for diversity. There are more than 17,000 undergrad students here, so you'll always have a chance to meet new people and find your niche. There are also people of every culture here, so its great if you want to interact with people of different races and ethnicities.

Tips for prospective students

Bring a thick coat! Boston gets cold here pretty quickly, and it gets quite frigid. Also, when you're choosing your housing, try to find out where the buildings your classrooms are in first. A few of the residences are pretty far from the class buildings, and you might have to end up walking a lot just to get to class in the morning.

Bang for the buck

Admittedly, this college is one of the most expensive in the country, but BU offers so much financial aid that most people wouldn't have much of a problem paying the costs. The experience you get here, as well as the events BU always hold, make up for the high price though.

Am enjoying being here

I love it here. Boston is such a great city to be in, and as a college town full of people my age, there is Always something to do. BU also has events and activities for students to go to literally everyday, so you'll easily find something to do on campus.

Am learning a lot

The classes here are great so far! I'm taking 5 classes, one of them worth one credit, and I am definitely learning a lot in each of them. Two of these classes really do challenge me, although I am always able to find help when I am having trouble with something. The classes aren't so easy that you get bored, but also not too hard that you get frustrated.

Yue from Berkeley Lake, GA

Great for anyone! This school is so diverse that anyone would find it wonderful here!

Tips for prospective students

You should definitely come experience Boston University! There is always so much to do, and the fast paced city life of Boston will definitely not let you down!

Bang for the buck

Boston University is quite expensive, it has definitely taken a chunk out of my family's wallet, but the variety of activities, gym, and courses offered here definitely make up.

Am enjoying being here

Boston University being located smack dab in the city is definitely a plus. Activities galore!

Am learning a lot

Since arriving here, I haven't been let down by any of my courses. Each course has been extremely interesting and something I want to pursue, and the professors have done a terrific job in helping me improve. From writing about fantasy learning how to read and write Chinese, the excitement of learning something new in class each day never ends.

Marissa from Lawrenceville, NJ

10/13/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

ANYONE... seriously!

Tips for prospective students

If you have the chance do First Year Student Outreach Program (FYSOP)- it is a great way to make new friends, settle in early and help out around Boston Dont believe all of the BU stereotypes... there are so many people from all over: there is no ONE kind of person who is at BU

Bang for the buck

The one thing that is not so great about BU is they nickel and dime you for almost everything- special events, sports games, COMMUNITY SERVICE (well, FYSOP)... that kinda of stinks

Am enjoying being here

Boston is a GREAT place to be! BU is right on the T line and you can get pretty much anywhere in the city very easily! I dont mind that there is no sprawling green campus...there are plenty of green grassy areas to sit and relax.

Am learning a lot

So far the professors seem great! They are very knowledgeable in their fields and are well respected. All of my professors have made it known that they will always be available if help is ever needed.

Gabby from NJ

I would say anyone- as long as you are driven and want to put in the hard work there is seriously a major and or club for everyone!!

Tips for prospective students

Look at the Quickie Jobs! BU offers something called Quickie Jobs which you can make fast cash by doing odd jobs- like babysitting, being a test subject, or mailing paperwork. These jobs are easily accesible and put money in your pocket. Go to the Hockey Games Agganis arena is awesome and it really makes you feel that you are apart of a huge family. If you are a quiet person look into a brownstone The best decision I made was living in a Bay State B-stone. I have many friends in the noisy residence halls so its nice I have a dorm where I can relax and do work without distractions.

Bang for the buck

Everyone says this: BU is very expensive. And yes, it is. Fortunately, I received a good amount of aid from a high-middle class family. So you never know what you are going to get. But you have to realize, Boston is expensive so BU tries to stay competitive. If you are looking to cut costs, look at off-campus apartments that are most times cheaper than dorming.

Am enjoying being here

The city is in your backyard. There are so many people around so you get exposed to everything. I have seen monkeys on the T train, comm ave running guy, and so many other crazy things around. I am so glad I chose to come here because the environment is great for anyone! I am ALWAYS at the library and feel that it is perfect to study. The dining halls offer great food with a lot of healthy choices. You can choose from a variety of residence halls. If you want try for a brownstone- i am a freshman and got in one! If you are looking for a good time and want to party-west campus is the BEST! For upperclassmen, there are beautiful Stuvi appartments that are to die for! The class sizes are rather large but I dont think someone should base their whole college decision off that. What is the difference of a professor teaching a lecture with 300 students and one that teaches a lecture with 30 students? Nothing. Many introductory classes will be large but they get broken down once a week for small sized discussions.

Am learning a lot

As a freshman at Sargent College, I did a lot of research before picking a school. I felt that BU is a great school, and Sargent College is the best if you are looking for something in the medical field. The classes of pre-med are VERY difficult, but you can tell that the professors love teaching and are there to help if you put in the effort they will work with you. I learned espicially to use ratemyprofessors.com because I had a terrible writing teacher, and should have read the reviews before taking that class.

Jillian from Hope Valley, RI

01/18/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

6 out of 6 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

BU is great for active students who want to get involved in the community outside of their school, who want to learn more than just what can be taught in class, and for students who aren't afraid to meet new people. If you are incredibly shy and are unwilling to change that, you may get lost in the crowd. The people I know who have a good time here are the people who get involved and have large amounts of school spirit. Those who don't tend to not enjoy themselves as much as they could.

Tips for prospective students

My number one piece of advice is to get involved with the CSC (Community Service Center). It all started with my FYSOP (a mix of community service, summer camp, and crazy dance party) experience. With so many programs to try and truly great people to meet, I definitely recommend it to all incoming freshman. My second piece of advice, don't eat the Sargent's Choice Lasagna roll. It's terribly dry.

Bang for the buck

BU is pretty pricey. That being said, I think that attending the university comes down to what you make it. I definitely believe that the cost could be lowered a bit but while I am here and paying, it is extremely easy to take advantage of the variety of classes, lectures, and experiences BU has to offer. Granted, some professors don't want to waste their time on undergrads and many people feel as though the school is just stealing their money but with a little research ahead of time, your classes can be worth every penny.

Am enjoying being here

I am having a really good time here in Boston. During the week, there's always a club meeting or lecture to go to, on the weekend, there's always a play, party, or other social event to go to. Even if there isn't something on campus, the whole city of Boston is at my feet. I've had an overall good experience here, from the dining hall food to surviving finals and am excited to start the new semester!

Am learning a lot

The amount of knowledge I've gained this past semester far surpasses that I ever learned in high school. Not only are my classes engaging and my professors inviting, but with the diversity of the student body comes more ideas and thoughts that help to enhance my experience.

KH from MA

01/03/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

7 out of 7 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Liberals. People interested in culture (my class is 11% international students), politics, and/or the arts. Students looking for a college town, but a college town with not only lots of students, but a lot of everyone else, too.

Tips for prospective students

Explore the city! No matter how tourist-y you may feel at first, you have to be a novice to something before you can be an expert on it. Take advantage of the fact that you live in a city that can cater to your interests. Whatever it is that you love, you'll find it here. Get a job, because the prices in Boston are not dirt-cheap. Sure, you can find some great deals here and there, but especially when you're on campus, stores will know that you probably aren't going to go too far from your dorm to get a bottle of soda or cough medicine, so you've got to have some money. Don't work TOO much, though - Especially as a freshman, you'll want to have some after-school time to socialize. Join clubs, for sure, but don't pack on the extracurriculars like you did in high school. Take it a couple things at a time. Find your niche! And you know that thing you've always wanted to do? Do it.

Bang for the buck

Anyone will tell you that BU is expensive. And it's true. It is. And when BU does things like cut back your printing quota and buy flat-screen TVs for the dining halls, you will probably feel kind of resentful. But fill out your FAFSA and all that and see what kind of financial aid package you get. I know lots of kids paying exorbitant amounts of money out of pocket, but I also know lots of kids with sweet financial aid packages. Give it a shot.

Am enjoying being here

I love Boston. I love being in the city and having access to concerts, musicals, plays, comedy, sports, museums, etc. The campus itself is good, too - The student organizations on campus are great, and there are always great shows at BU Central. But our fairly small campus can't compare to all of the great stuff happening all around it.

Am learning a lot

BU has totally flipped my perception of academics. It seems like the classes I think I'll hate, I love, and the classes I think I'll love...well, I don't necessarily hate them - They're just hard to sit through sometimes. Nonetheless, I've gotten something out of all of them, just some more than others. It's inevitable that there will be some boring classes that it's hard to get yourself interested in, but for the most part the classes are challenging and will really make you think. And this holds true at pretty much every college - The more you put into your education, the more you get out of it. Give it a real effort. The learning hasn't just been in the classroom, though - With the relatively high percentage of international students, I've learned a lot about culture, too, just by being a part of the student body.

BU is a huge school and has a very urban campus. It may seem intimidating but there are so many opportunities to get involved. If you have an interest in anything, there will be a group for it. If not, make your own. If possible, visit the school. It's a step away from Fenway Park and is located in the heart of one of the greatest cities in the US. Talk to current students. There are several facebook groups for BU students and prospective BU students.

Bang for the buck

BU is one of the most expensive schools in the country but there are lot's of opportunities for financial aide. A popular choice is a work-study program where students can work in the student union or various places to help fund their education.

Am enjoying being here

It's a big school full of highly educated and very motivated people. I truly think Boston is the greatest place to be for college. The campus is right in the city and is right on the green line so it's easy to get anywhere on the T. There are great advisers and RA's in the dorms to help answer questions. Some of them even bake cookies. There is so much to do within the school. The Activities Council is always hosting great concerts and dances.

Am learning a lot

The faculty at BU and incredibly qualified and knowledgeable. Each one is passionate about his or her subject and really want to see their students succeed. The classes are always interesting and challenging. Some utilize technology and online supplemental learning websites. The discussion groups are small and really help to clarify and build off of the lectures. There are always interesting lectures to go to outside of class. My favorite was a lecture by Professor Elie Wiesel, the author of Night, who spoke about the danger of indifference in our society and in the global community.

Don't be afraid to try new things. There are tons of opportunities if you just look for them.

Bang for the buck

It is a very expensive school, but it is possible to get enough financial aid to make it affordable. Particularly in the engineering and business schools, it is most definitely worth it.

Am enjoying being here

People come from all over the United States and from all over the world to study. It's great to meet new people and learn about new cultures. The city is also safe and a great place to explore. There is always something to do on campus, and if you can't find anything there, there is always the city.

Am learning a lot

The professors here are very knowledgeable in their fields. They have studied everything established and are often researching what is not established.

Jill from Bloomington, MN

If your willing to work hard - BU isn't an easy school. If you like a big campus with a diverse student body. You also have to want to live in the city - you'll hear ambulances and the T at all hours.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely visit so you know BU is the right place for you - it is expensive, but worth it if you love the school! Just make sure it's right for you.

Bang for the buck

BU is very expensive, and many of my friends didn't get much aid. However, BU is a massive campus, in the city, with a high cost of living. Plus, you have great professors with great opportunities..so it can be worth it, if you make the most of it.

Am enjoying being here

If you love Boston, city life, shopping, or hockey - this is a good place for you. I love walking out my dorm and hopping on the T and going into the city. Newbury (where many people go shopping) is about a 10 minute walk, or quick T ride away. The city is a great place to explore. Hockey is huge, which being from Minnesota, made me feel at home. The BU vs BC rivalry is great, and makes the hockey game very intense, but so fun!

Am learning a lot

The professors at BU are EXTREMELY knowledgeable and often are at the top of their field. Some of the intro classes have a lot of high school review, but it leads to a deeper understanding of the topic. The professors for the most part are VERY helpful, and there are a lot of on campus resources (such as tutoring, writing centers) to help you if needed.

Make sure that you really will not miss the traditional college campus. BU is not completely without a campus, but it's very much feels like a city. There's no quad or frat row etc. If you feel like you want a very traditional college experience, BU is probably not the school for you. You don't want to come here and have doubts about your decision. But, if you love being in a city, right in the middle of everything, you should definitely consider BU.

Bang for the buck

I have to be honest, I feel that BU is extremely over-priced. I have a pretty decent scholarship from the school, but no way would I ever pay full price for BU. I know I'm biased because I love SMG so much, but also I feel like SMG is more worth the money than some of the other schools. I would definitely not pay the tuition to get a degree in the humanities etc. I have to take certain arts and sciences classes for my business degree and I often feel that the programs or courses are very disappointing. Granted, I have only been here for a semester, so I'm still speaking from limited experience. However, I really feel that many of the classes here are not worth the exorbitantly high tuition. If you get a really good financial aid package though, it would definitely be worth your while to come here, because I do really like the school.

Am enjoying being here

I really do enjoy being here. As I have already explained, I love my SMG classes. Although they're a lot of work, they are very interesting and hard work pays off very well. Outside of classes, BU is really fun. At such a large school, there is always something going on. There are also about a million clubs to join here. Seriously, if you are bored at BU you are really not paying attention, because there is always something to do here. Also, the location of the school cannot be beat. Boston is such an interesting city with so much to see, not just downtown, but all around the city. I love Boston and think that it's a really really cool city. Also, it's very easy to get around the city. There are T-stops all up and down Comm Ave. Most places in the city can be reached by T. Other places, like Cambridge, take two T's, but the trip as a whole is usually fairly quick and easy. I love the school and I love Boston.

Am learning a lot

I am currently attending the School of Management at BU and I can honestly say that I have learned a baffling amount of information. SMG starts teaching you real business skills from the very first day of class. I'm about to finish my first semester here and I have already learned the basics of accounting and finance. I'm looking forward to learning about marketing and organizational behavior next semester. SMG not only teaches you the mechanical concepts, but also prominently focuses on making you a well-rounded business student. We work extensively in groups and the school is very adamant about teaching students to work and communicate successfully. Also, we give formal business presentations several times throughout the semester with a strong focus on improving our skills in this area. SMG also teaches you business writing, mostly how to write a business memo correctly. It takes a lot of time and effort to be successful in SMG, but it's so worth it and you learn so much. The only reason I don't give BU 5 stars in this area is that I don't feel like I'm learning as much in my College of Arts and Sciences courses that are required by SMG. I don't particularly enjoy these classes or find them as proactive and useful as those classes taught in SMG.

Alex from Waco, TX

07/30/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

83 out of 83 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

BU is great for liberals, music enthusiasts, hockey fans, people that are just big fans of Boston, and people involved in liberal arts. And of course with the winters here, if you don't mind a bit of cold, you'll like it here too.

Tips for prospective students

Get out and enjoy the city. You'll get out of Boston what you put into it, see some music shows, check out the harbor or historical sites. Get involved with some BU extracurriculars, find a group or activity with other students you can really have fun with, especially intramurals. The SPLASH event at the beginning of the year is great for letting you see what is out there.

Bang for the buck

It's a bit expensive, but coupled with some hard work to get scholarships or a job you can get here. BU definitely makes an effort to help students cut costs here and there, like encouraging on-campus living as the Boston living cost is high. My classes definitely are worth their weight in knowledge gained, and cosmetic work on campus lets you know your money is definitely going to enrich your college experience and not just to the administrative pockets.

Am enjoying being here

I come from a suburb town in Texas to one of the biggest historical and cultural centers in America, and it's great meeting new types of people and just experiencing something that would have been hard to find around my home. I'm getting out and experiencing more of the world, learning new things, and enriching my life's journey. After all, that's what college is supposed to do.

Am learning a lot

The faculty is usually attentive and pretty entertaining. Most professors know exactly what they're talking about and provide insight into difficult fields with ease. I took the Core Curriculum and am learning much about history and philosophy. I have enjoyed all my classes and am looking forward to my courses next semester!

Cristina from Haverstraw, NY

Great for anyone! There is definitely something for anyone as long as you are willing to look.

Tips for prospective students

Save save save your money and work work work hard! Then you will get the bang for your buck.

Bang for the buck

Simply put, BU is expensive.

Am enjoying being here

There is so much to do here! Thousands of students that provide student-led activities as well as the school providing stuff to do. For example, at BU Central, students book bands to come and play for students for FREE! The school also does things for students, like teh parade held last year to honor the hockey team in their national victory.

Am learning a lot

I've only given four stars due to my lack of interest in the required courses. I understand the purpose behind them, but they really put a damper on my enjoyment of my classes for my major. I absolutely love those classes (SMG Business) and the Professors are amazing!

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